WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the handy features of WhatsApp is voice and video calling, which allows users to easily connect with friends and family.
However, many WhatsApp users have experienced an issue where WhatsApp calls get disconnected after just one ring. This can be frustrating when trying to get in touch with someone. So what causes this one ring disconnect issue on WhatsApp calls and how can it be fixed?
What Causes the One Ring Disconnect on WhatsApp Calls?
There are a few potential reasons why WhatsApp calls may disconnect after just one ring:
- Network connectivity issues – If either caller or receiver has a poor internet connection, this can cause the call to drop after one ring. Weak mobile data signals or WiFi problems can interrupt the call.
- Incorrect or outdated app version – An outdated version of the WhatsApp app on either device may cause calling issues and call drops. Ensure both parties are running the latest version of WhatsApp.
- Do Not Disturb mode enabled – If the receiver has enabled Do Not Disturb mode on their device, calls will disconnect after one ring. WhatsApp is designed to respect this OS setting.
- Blocked contact – If the receiver has blocked the caller’s number, the call will again disconnect after one ring instead of connecting.
- Account registration issues – Sometimes if the receiver’s WhatsApp account registration process is interrupted, it can cause calling problems until the registration is completed.
- App backgrounding/quitting – If the WhatsApp app is running in the background or forcibly quit on the receiver’s device, calls won’t connect properly.
- Temporary app glitches – In some cases, isolated software glitches in WhatsApp may also be the culprit behind one ring call drops.
So in summary, connectivity problems, app issues, block settings or simple software bugs could all contribute to WhatsApp calls ending after the first ringtone.
How to Fix WhatsApp Call Disconnecting After One Ring
If you’re struggling with dropped WhatsApp calls, here are some troubleshooting tips to try out:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
The most common reason for WhatsApp call failure is poor internet connectivity. Check that both devices have a strong, stable connection – either through mobile data or WiFi. Troubleshoot any network issues and switch connections if need be. Try moving closer to your router if on WiFi.
2. Update the WhatsApp App
Make sure both the caller and receiver have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. Outdated app versions can harbor bugs that affect calling functionality. Update WhatsApp through your device’s app store to eliminate any known calling issues.
3. Disable Do Not Disturb Mode
Check if Do Not Disturb mode is enabled on the receiver’s device and switch it off if so. You can find this setting under Sound/Notification settings on Android and Settings > Do Not Disturb on iPhone. WhatsApp calls will connect normally when DND is disabled.
4. Unblock the Caller’s Number
If you’ve been blocked by the contact, your WhatsApp calls will fail. Ask the recipient to unblock your number in WhatsApp to restore calling abilities. On Android, go to Settings > Account > Privacy > Blocked contacts. On iPhone, go to Settings > Account > Privacy > Blocked.
5. Complete WhatsApp Registration
Make sure the recipient has fully registered their WhatsApp account and verified their number. Interrupted registration can interfere with calling functionality. Re-register the account if needed to resolve any issues.
6. Re-Launch the WhatsApp App
Force quit and re-launch the WhatsApp app on both devices to eliminate any app glitches. On Android, swipe WhatsApp away in the recents menu. On iPhone, double press the home button and swipe up on WhatsApp.
7. Update Your Phone’s Operating System
Having an outdated OS version can also introduce compatibility issues with WhatsApp. Install the latest OS updates on both devices – whether iOS or Android – to enjoy optimal performance.
8. Clear Cache and Data
Corrupted app data could potentially interfere with WhatsApp calling. Try clearing the cache and app data for WhatsApp through your phone’s Settings or Apps menu. This will wipe any buggy data and reinitialize WhatsApp.
9. Contact WhatsApp Support
If all else fails, reach out to the official WhatsApp support team through the in-app options or the website. They may be able to diagnose deeper issues and provide specialized troubleshooting tips for your problem.
Best Practices to Avoid WhatsApp Call Disconnects
Once you’ve resolved any call dropping issues, follow these tips to prevent any future calling problems on WhatsApp:
- Always keep WhatsApp updated to the latest version.
- Make sure your internet connection and mobile data signals are strong before making a WhatsApp call.
- Disable battery saver modes which may interfere with WhatsApp’s background functioning.
- Don’t force quit or swipe away the WhatsApp app from the background.
- Grant WhatsApp the right permissions when prompted on Android and iOS.
- Regularly check for and install important OS and security updates.
- Avoid using WhatsApp on jailbroken or rooted devices as this can cause issues.
- Turn off Do Not Disturb mode if you are expecting WhatsApp calls.
Sticking to these best practices will help avoid those pesky one ring call disconnects going forward.
Why Does Only the First Ring Go Through Before Disconnect?
You may be wondering why WhatsApp calls manage to ring once before getting disconnected or rejected. This first ring is due to the initial call setup process between WhatsApp servers, before the call failure is detected and the disconnect occurs.
Here is a more detailed breakdown:
- The caller taps the call button on WhatsApp.
- WhatsApp sends a call request to the app servers.
- The servers look up the recipient’s device details and initiate the call.
- The recipient’s phone rings once as it receives the server’s call setup request.
- At this point, any connectivity or account issues trigger a call failure.
- WhatsApp servers detect the error and disconnect the call attempt.
So in essence, you get one ring before the disconnect because some initial call signaling does take place through WhatsApp servers. But subsequently a problem occurs which ends the call before establishing a direct peer-to-peer connection.
What Does “Connecting…” Mean on WhatsApp Calls?
Sometimes when making a WhatsApp call, you may see the status remain stuck on “Connecting…” rather than disconnecting after one ring. This typically means:
- The call request reached the recipient’s phone but is delayed in connecting fully.
- There is a poor network connection causing errors in call setup.
- The recipient’s phone may be slow in responding or overloaded.
- Background processes may be interfering with WhatsApp.
- Trying to reconnect to the recipient’s device is taking time.
“Connecting…” generally indicates an issue in initially connecting the WhatsApp call due to network problems or device performance. However, it still signals that some contact was made, vs. a one ring disconnect.
Why Does WhatsApp End Calls After 4 Hours?
While WhatsApp call disconnects are usually unwanted, there is one case where WhatsApp will intentionally end a call – when it exceeds 4 hours. WhatsApp has set a 4 hour time limit on individual calls, after which the app will automatically disconnect the session.
This limit is likely programmed by WhatsApp to conserve server resources. Keeping calls open indefinitely could strain the systems, especially if multiple long calls are occurring. Ending prolonged calls also saves users potential data overage charges.
So if your marathon WhatsApp call suddenly ends at the 4 hour mark, don’t worry – this is expected and normal behavior. Just restart the call if you wish to continue the conversation.
Troubleshooting Tips for Common WhatsApp Call Issues
Beyond one ring disconnects, here are some solutions for other frequent WhatsApp calling problems:
| Issue | Fixes |
|---|---|
| Call quality is poor |
|
| Can’t make calls |
|
| Calls go straight to voicemail |
|
| Can’t receive calls |
|
Following the right troubleshooting steps for your specific calling issue can help narrow down the cause and get WhatsApp working properly again.
Conclusion
WhatsApp calls ending after just one ring can be annoying, but are often fixable. Causes like network problems, software bugs, block settings and Do Not Disturb modes could be responsible. Make sure to follow troubleshooting steps like updating WhatsApp, checking connectivity, disabling DND and reinstalling the app. This should successfully resolve any one ring call drop issues.
Prevent future calling problems by keeping app versions current, granting permissions, maintaining OS updates and not force quitting WhatsApp. Also expect WhatsApp to intentionally end calls at the 4 hour mark to conserve resources. Get in touch with WhatsApp support if any calling issues persist after troubleshooting. With the right fixes, you’ll be back to smooth WhatsApp calling in no time.