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Why is it calling and not ringing on WhatsApp?

WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the key features of WhatsApp is the ability to make voice and video calls over an internet connection. However, many users have experienced issues where when they try to call someone on WhatsApp, the call doesn’t go through and the recipient’s phone doesn’t ring.

Common Reasons for No Ringing on WhatsApp Call

There are a few common reasons why a WhatsApp call may not cause the recipient’s phone to ring:

  • The recipient has disabled calls or has their phone on Do Not Disturb mode
  • Network connectivity issues like poor WiFi or mobile data signal
  • The recipient’s phone is switched off, in airplane mode, or has run out of battery
  • Issues with the recipient’s phone settings or version of WhatsApp
  • Bugs or glitches in WhatsApp’s calling feature

Let’s explore these potential issues in more detail:

Recipient Has Disabled Calls or Do Not Disturb Mode

One of the most likely reasons your WhatsApp call doesn’t ring on the recipient’s phone is that they have disabled calls or have enabled Do Not Disturb mode. Here are some things to check:

  • The recipient may have disabled WhatsApp calls in their app settings. They need to enable call support.
  • They may have enabled Do Not Disturb mode which blocks incoming calls and notifications.
  • On iPhone, they can disable calls by toggling off “Calls” in WhatsApp settings.
  • Your call may be blocked if the recipient has blocked your number.

Network Connectivity Issues

Since WhatsApp calls rely on an internet connection, any network problems can prevent the call from going through properly:

  • If the recipient has a poor WiFi or mobile data connection, the call signal may not get through.
  • Switching between WiFi and cellular can also cause connectivity issues.
  • Make sure both you and the recipient are connected to a strong, stable internet connection.

Recipient’s Phone Off, in Airplane Mode, or Out of Battery

Another simple reason your call may not be ringing is:

  • The recipient’s phone is switched off or in airplane mode.
  • Their phone has run out of battery.
  • They are in an area with no network coverage.

In these cases, your WhatsApp call won’t be able to reach the recipient’s phone.

Issues With Recipient’s Phone Settings or WhatsApp Version

Problems with the recipient’s phone settings or WhatsApp version could also affect call connectivity:

  • Older versions of WhatsApp may have bugs affecting calling.
  • The recipient may have enabled battery saver or power saving mode which limits background apps.
  • They may need to check WhatsApp’s permissions and make sure it isn’t blocked.
  • Restarting their phone can help troubleshoot any software issues.

Bugs or Glitches in WhatsApp

In some cases, there may be bugs in WhatsApp’s calling feature causing no ring:

  • A recent update may have introduced new bugs.
  • Restarting the app or reinstalling WhatsApp can help resolve software glitches.
  • Make sure both parties are on the latest version of WhatsApp.
  • The issue may be temporary and get fixed with a WhatsApp update.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix No Ringing Issue

If your WhatsApp call isn’t ringing, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem:

Check Do Not Disturb Settings on Recipient’s Phone

On an iPhone, the recipient can go to Settings > Do Not Disturb and make sure it is disabled. On Android, they can check that Do Not Disturb mode is turned off in Settings or the notification panel.

Enable WhatsApp Calls Setting

Make sure the recipient has calls enabled in WhatsApp settings: Tap Settings > Calls and toggle on “Calls”.

Update to the Latest Version of WhatsApp

Install the latest version of WhatsApp from the app store. This will fix any bugs in the calling feature.

Check Network Connection

Make sure both parties have a stable WiFi or mobile data connection when trying to make the call.

Restart Phones

Restart both yours and the recipient’s phone which can resolve temporary glitches.

Reinstall WhatsApp

As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to clear out any bugs or glitches in the app.

Contact WhatsApp Support

If none of the above fixes the issue, contact WhatsApp support for help troubleshooting the problem.

Why Does WhatsApp Calling Use the Internet?

WhatsApp and other voice over IP (VoIP) apps like FaceTime and Skype use the internet to make calls instead of the regular phone network. Here are some key reasons why:

  • Cost – Internet calling over WiFi or mobile data is cheaper than using cellular minutes.
  • Global reach – Internet calls allow connecting people across the globe.
  • Call quality – Newer technologies allow high-quality call audio.
  • Extra features – Apps can add features like video calling, chat, media sharing.
  • Cross-platform – Internet calling allows Android, iPhone, PC, web users to connect.

By relying on the internet, WhatsApp provides free voice and video calling globally between any of its users. This allows people to stay connected affordably even across long distances.

Key Differences Between WhatsApp Calling and Regular Phone Calling

Here is a comparison of some key differences between WhatsApp calling over the internet vs traditional cellular phone calling:

Feature WhatsApp Calling Regular Phone Calling
Cost Free (uses mobile data or WiFi) Costs cellular plan minutes
Connectivity Requires internet connection Uses cellular network signal
Call Quality Varies based on internet speed More consistent quality
Phone Number Uses existing WhatsApp account Based on SIM phone number
Extra Features Video calling, chat, media sharing Limited built-in features
Cross-platform Works across Android, iPhone, PC Limited to same network

While WhatsApp provides free calling globally, phone network calls provide more consistent quality and reliability in areas with cellular coverage but no internet.

Pro Tips for Making Clear WhatsApp Calls

Follow these tips for making the highest quality WhatsApp calls that ring and connect clearly:

  • Check your internet connection – Use a strong WiFi network or cellular data with multiple bars of signal strength.
  • Disable battery saver mode – This can restrict WhatsApp from working properly in the background.
  • Update WhatsApp – Install the latest version which fixes calling bugs.
  • Restart your phone – Refresh the software by powering your phone off and on again.
  • Use headphones – Headphones with a built-in mic reduce background noise.
  • Check the recipient’s settings – Make sure calls are enabled with cellular data or WiFi turned on.
  • Set up a WhatsApp call first – Try making a call to the recipient to confirm connectivity before voice calling.

WhatsApp Calling Limitations

While WhatsApp calling is very useful, it does have some limitations to be aware of:

  • Call quality depends on internet speed and stability.
  • It may not work in areas with no internet access or poor cellular coverage.
  • International calls can suffer lag due to long distances.
  • Video calls use more data and require higher internet speeds.
  • Special calling features like call waiting, forwarding aren’t available.
  • Emergency calls to numbers like 911 are not supported.

For important calls, it may be better to use a cellular network for guaranteed call quality and emergency calling access. WhatsApp is best suited for everyday calling between contacts.

Conclusion

WhatsApp calling has made it easier than ever to connect with contacts around the world free of cost. However, issues like call not ringing can occur due to Do Not Disturb settings, network problems, software glitches or phone errors. Following troubleshooting steps like updating WhatsApp, checking internet connectivity, restarting your phone and checking the recipient’s settings can help fix no ring problems. With optimal settings and stable internet connections, WhatsApp provides a convenient way to make free international calls.