There are a few potential reasons why your iPhone WhatsApp may show connecting rather than properly connecting to send and receive messages:
Weak Internet Connection
The most common reason is that you have a weak or unstable internet connection. WhatsApp requires an internet connection to send and receive messages. If the connection drops while WhatsApp is trying to connect, it may get stuck on “connecting”. Try moving closer to your WiFi router or disabling WiFi and using mobile data instead. Restarting your phone can also help reset the connection.
Outdated App
An outdated version of WhatsApp can also cause connection issues. Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed on your iPhone. Go to the App Store and check for any available updates. The most recent WhatsApp version will have bug fixes and performance improvements that could resolve problems like getting stuck on connecting.
Incorrect Date/Time Settings
If the date and time settings on your iPhone are incorrect, it can interfere with WhatsApp’s ability to connect properly. Go into your iPhone’s Settings > General > Date & Time and make sure the settings are correct with the right time zone selected. If they are off, adjust them accordingly which should help WhatsApp connect normally.
Background App Refresh Disabled
WhatsApp relies on background app refresh to keep running and receive messages while in the background. If you have disabled background app refresh for WhatsApp or for your device as a whole, it can prevent WhatsApp from connecting smoothly. Check Settings > General > Background App Refresh and make sure it is enabled both for your device and specifically for WhatsApp.
Jailbroken Device
Jailbreaking your iPhone can sometimes cause issues with apps like WhatsApp properly connecting and working. The modifications made during the jailbreak process can disrupt normal app behavior. Try restoring your device back to factory default settings to eliminate any problems stemming from jailbreaking.
Troubleshooting Steps
If your iPhone WhatsApp still won’t move past connecting, try these troubleshooting steps:
Force Close and Re-Open WhatsApp
Double tap the home button and swipe up on WhatsApp to force close it. Then re-launch WhatsApp to see if this resets the connection.
Toggle Airplane Mode
Turn on Airplane mode for 30 seconds, then turn it off again. This will disable all connections and reconnect from scratch which can resolve any sticking points.
Verify WhatsApp Account
Open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Verification. Make sure your account is verified successfully. Unverified accounts can sometimes get stuck on connecting.
Reinstall WhatsApp
As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp on your iPhone. This will clear out any corrupted files or cached data that could be preventing WhatsApp from connecting. Just be sure to back up your messages first.
Reset Network Settings
Go to Settings > General > Reset and choose Reset Network Settings. This will reset all network connections on your device which can serve as a fresh start if your iPhone is having trouble connecting specifically to WhatsApp.
Advanced Troubleshooting
For additional troubleshooting steps if the above do not work, try these advanced fixes:
Update iOS Software
Ensure your iPhone is updated to the very latest iOS version. Major iOS updates can resolve bugs and issues that may interfere with WhatsApp connectivity.
Try WhatsApp Web
See if you can access WhatsApp properly through WhatsApp Web in a desktop browser. If WhatsApp Web connects fine, then the issue is isolated to your iPhone.
Delete and Re-Add Account
Delete your WhatsApp account from your iPhone and then re-add and verify it from scratch. This can reset your account details and registration.
Contact WhatsApp Support
If all else fails, reach out to WhatsApp directly through their help center. They may be able to provide specialized support to troubleshoot your specific connectivity problem.
Preventative Measures
To avoid iPhone WhatsApp connectivity problems in the future:
Keep WhatsApp Updated
Install WhatsApp updates as soon as they become available to get the latest fixes. Set your App Store updates to automatic.
Manage Storage Space
Ensure you have ample free storage space on your iPhone. Low storage can cause performance issues.
Backup Regularly
Backup your WhatsApp messages and data regularly so you have them if you ever need to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
Use Strong Wi-Fi/Cellular Signal
Weak mobile data and Wi-Fi signals can disrupt connectivity. Try not to use WhatsApp in areas with poor coverage.
Avoid Jailbreaking
Jailbroken iPhones are more prone to app glitches. Consider using a normal non-jailbroken device for best app stability.
Why Does WhatsApp Get Stuck on Connecting?
Here are some of the key technical reasons why WhatsApp may get stuck on connecting specifically:
Registration Issues
If there are problems registering your device ID and phone number with WhatsApp’s servers, it cannot complete the connection process fully. Re-verifying your number can reset the registration.
IP Connection Problems
Failed attempts to communicate properly with WhatsApp’s servers over the internet and establish a valid IP connection can lead to long connecting times. Changing networks or toggling airplane mode can resolve this.
App Configuration Conflicts
Something in WhatsApp’s app configuration files may be corrupted or set incorrectly, preventing normal connecting behavior. Reinstalling can overwrite bad configurations.
Background Process Freezing
The WhatsApp background process may freeze up while trying to connect, especially if the app is force closed incorrectly. Restarting the iPhone resets all background apps and processes.
Chat Database Errors
WhatsApp’s database holding your messages and chat history can sometimes have issues that disrupt connections until repaired. Re-registering your number forces WhatsApp to recreate the database.
What Does WhatsApp’s Connecting Status Mean?
WhatsApp’s “Connecting” status means the app is currently trying to establish a communication link with WhatsApp’s servers. Reasons it may get stuck here include:
- No internet connection available
- Very slow/unreliable internet
- Incorrect time and date settings on your device
- Outdated version of WhatsApp
- Temporary server issues on WhatsApp’s end
- Your account was banned or blocked
- Phone number verification problems
- Poor cellular reception
- Incorrectly configured firewall or proxy settings
The “Connecting” status indicates normal connection steps are being taken but a fully connected state has not yet been reached. WhatsApp is essentially stuck in between being completely offline and fully connected.
Conclusion
In summary, WhatsApp getting stuck on connecting is generally due to phone-side connection problems rather than issues with WhatsApp’s servers. The most common fixes involve resetting network settings, reinstalling WhatsApp, ensuring proper date/time settings, and ruling out unstable internet connections. Following preventative measures like keeping WhatsApp updated, maintaining ample storage space, and backing up data can help minimize connection problems in the long run.