WhatsApp video calling is a great way to stay connected with friends and family. However, sometimes you may find that the WhatsApp video call option is not showing up on your iPhone. There are a few potential reasons why this can happen.
Software Issues
One of the most common reasons for WhatsApp video calls not working on iPhone is a software issue either with WhatsApp or iOS. Here are some things to check:
- Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. Open the App Store and check for any available updates.
- Also ensure your iPhone is running the latest iOS version. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for and install any updates.
- Force close and reopen the WhatsApp app. Press the home button twice and swipe up on the WhatsApp preview to fully close it. Then reopen WhatsApp.
- Restart your iPhone. Press and hold the power button and slide to power off. Wait 30 seconds, then turn your iPhone back on.
- Check WhatsApp settings. Open WhatsApp > Settings > Calls and make sure video calling is enabled.
Updating WhatsApp and iOS or restarting your iPhone can help resolve any software glitches preventing video calls from working properly.
Internet Connectivity Issues
WhatsApp video calls require a stable internet connection with good upload and download speeds. Connection issues like weak Wi-Fi signal, limited cellular data, or a VPN can disrupt video calls.
- Check your Wi-Fi connection by running a speed test. Try moving closer to your router or resetting it.
- If on cellular data, check coverage maps for your area. Move to a location with better signal.
- Disable any VPN connections temporarily to check if that’s the issue.
- Use Speedtest.net to test your upload and download speeds. You need at least 1 Mbps upload and download for WhatsApp video calls.
Switching to a stronger Wi-Fi or cellular data connection can help if poor internet is preventing WhatsApp video call from working properly.
Account and Permissions Issues
Issues with your WhatsApp account settings or iPhone app permissions could also block video calling.
- Make sure your WhatsApp account is not banned or restricted in any way. Try calling from another device.
- Check iPhone notification settings and make sure WhatsApp has permissions to send you notifications.
- Enable WhatsApp’s microphone and camera access in iPhone Settings > Privacy > Camera/Microphone.
- Log out then back into your WhatsApp account on your iPhone.
Double checking your WhatsApp account status, notifications, and iPhone app permissions can help troubleshoot account-related issues.
Hardware or Compatibility Problems
Hardware defects with your iPhone’s camera or microphone can prevent video calls from functioning. Compatibility issues may also arise if attempting to video call very old devices or versions of WhatsApp.
- Test your iPhone’s front camera in the Camera app to check for defects or dirt/debris blocking the lens.
- Blow into your iPhone’s microphone and speaker to dislodge any dust or debris.
- Check the WhatsApp minimum requirements and make sure the device you are calling meets them.
- Update old devices to newer iOS/Android versions if below WhatsApp’s minimum requirements.
Ruling out hardware defects and compatibility issues with very old devices can resolve certain video call problems.
Network Restrictions
Some cellular networks and public Wi-Fi networks block or restrict WhatsApp’s video calling feature. This is especially common in some countries and regions.
- Try making a WhatsApp video call while connected to different Wi-Fi networks or cellular data.
- Use a VPN service to bypass any network blocks or restrictions on video calling.
- Contact your cellular carrier to check if any network policies are blocking WhatsApp Video calling over mobile data.
Network restrictions can prevent WhatsApp video calls from connecting. Using Wi-Fi, VPNs, or contacting your carrier may help circumvent blocks.
Too Many Missed/Declined Calls
If you continuously miss or decline WhatsApp video call requests, the app may stop showing the video call icon as frequently.
- Try initiating a WhatsApp video call yourself to the same person/group.
- Let the video call ring for longer before declining.
- Tell your WhatsApp contacts you are available for video calls again.
WhatsApp may limit video call notifications if too many calls are rejected or ignored. Being more responsive can restore video call availability.
Conclusion
WhatsApp video calling not working on iPhone is usually due to a minor software glitch, connection problems, account settings, hardware defect, network restriction, or too many missed/declined calls. Updating WhatsApp/iOS, switching networks, enabling permissions, cleaning hardware, using VPNs, and answering more calls can typically resolve the issue and get WhatsApp video calls working again on your iPhone.