WhatsApp calls crashing can be frustrating, but the issue is usually easy to resolve. Here are some quick troubleshooting tips to get your WhatsApp calls working again.
Check Your Internet Connection
The most common reason for WhatsApp call failures is a poor internet connection. WhatsApp calls require a stable internet connection with good upload and download speeds. Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your phone – This resets the network connection
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router if you’re on Wi-Fi
- Switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa
- Ask others if they’re having internet issues in your area
If you can browse the internet and use other apps, your internet is likely working fine. The issue may be specific to WhatsApp.
Update the WhatsApp App
An outdated version of WhatsApp can cause calls to crash or fail to connect. Update to the latest version of WhatsApp on your device:
- On Android, open the Play Store app and check for WhatsApp updates
- On iPhone, open the App Store app and check for WhatsApp updates
- On Windows Phone, open the Store app and check for WhatsApp updates
Install any available updates. This will ensure you’re running the latest WhatsApp version with bug fixes and performance improvements.
Force Stop WhatsApp
Forcing WhatsApp to stop and restarting the app can clear up temporary glitches that may be causing calls to crash:
- On Android, open Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Force Stop
- On iPhone, double tap the Home button and swipe up on WhatsApp to close it
- On Windows Phone, open Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Stop
Then open WhatsApp again and try making a call. This resets the app and reconnects the network connection from scratch.
Clear Cache and Data
Clearing the cache and app data for WhatsApp can fix crashes related to corrupt data files:
- On Android, go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data
- On iPhone, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, tap WhatsApp and tap Offload App
- On Windows Phone, go to Settings > Storage Sense > Temporary Files > Select All > Remove
This forces WhatsApp to start fresh which may resolve the crashing issue. Just be aware it will delete your messages and settings, so you’ll have to restore them.
Disable and Re-Enable WhatsApp
If the app crashes right when initiating a call, try disabling and re-enabling WhatsApp:
- On Android, go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Disable > Enable
- On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Restrictions > Disable WhatsApp > Enable WhatsApp
- On Windows Phone, go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Turn Off > Turn On
This may help if WhatsApp crashes constantly when you try to make calls.
Restart Your Phone
As a last resort, restart your phone:
- On Android, hold down the Power button and tap Restart
- On iPhone X or later, hold down the side button and Volume Up simultaneously until the power off slider appears. Slide to turn off. Then turn your phone back on.
- On iPhone 8 or earlier, hold down the Power button until the power off slider appears. Slide to turn off. Then turn your phone back on.
- On Windows Phone, hold down the Power button until the phone vibrates. Tap Restart.
Restarting your phone will clear any corrupt cache files or software issues that may be causing WhatsApp to crash.
Update Your Phone Software
Outdated phone software can also cause problems with WhatsApp calls. Ensure your phone is updated:
- On Android, check for system updates in Settings > System > Advanced > System Update
- On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update
- On Windows Phone, open the Settings app and check for system updates
Install any available updates. Keeping your phone software up-to-date will ensure compatibility with WhatsApp.
Check if WhatsApp is Down
In rare cases, WhatsApp servers may be down entirely, making it impossible for anyone to make calls. Check sites like Downdetector to see if WhatsApp is experiencing an outage in your area.
The issue should resolve itself once WhatsApp fixes the outage. Try again later.
Factory Reset as Last Resort
If nothing else has worked, backup your phone and reset it to factory settings:
- On Android, go to Settings > Backup and Reset > Factory Data Reset
- On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings
- On Windows Phone, go to Settings > About > Reset your phone
This will erase your data and settings, but may fix software issues causing WhatsApp to crash.
Conclusion
WhatsApp calls crashing is usually caused by network issues, software bugs, or corrupt app data. Follow the troubleshooting steps outlined above to identify and resolve the problem.
The most common fixes are checking your internet connection, updating WhatsApp, restarting your phone, and clearing the app cache and data. With a bit of troubleshooting, you should be able to get WhatsApp calls working properly again.
If the problem persists even after trying all troubleshooting steps, it’s best to contact WhatsApp support. There may be an ongoing issue with WhatsApp servers that requires further investigation.
With over 1 billion users, WhatsApp is incredibly popular. But tech issues can still pop up from time to time. Just run through these troubleshooting tips if your WhatsApp calls are crashing to get back to seamless voice and video chats.
Here is a summary of the key troubleshooting steps covered in this article:
Quick Fixes
- Check your internet connection
- Update the WhatsApp app
- Force stop WhatsApp
Clear App Data
- Clear cache and data in app settings
- Disable and re-enable WhatsApp
Software Updates
- Update your phone software
- Check for WhatsApp outages
Last Resorts
- Restart your phone
- Factory reset your phone
Following this step-by-step guide should help you quickly troubleshoot and fix WhatsApp call crashes on Android, iPhone, and Windows Phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my WhatsApp crash when making video calls?
Here are some common reasons why WhatsApp crashes during video calls:
- Poor internet connection causing lag or interruptions
- Outdated version of the WhatsApp app
- Corrupt cache or data files
- Buggy phone software or hardware issue
- Overheating phone due to resource intensive video calls
Follow the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article to resolve the issue.
Why does my WhatsApp crash when making voice calls?
Some common reasons for WhatsApp voice call crashes include:
- Unstable internet connection with packet loss
- Expired or invalid VOIP credentials
- Incompatible or outdated software
- Exceeding max concurrent calls on a device
- WhatsApp server outage
Refer to the troubleshooting guide to fix voice call crashes.
How can I tell if my phone is causing WhatsApp to crash?
Here are signs the issue may be with your phone rather than WhatsApp:
- WhatsApp crashes immediately on call connect
- Other apps like phone, Skype also crash
- Happens across Wi-Fi and mobile data
- Persists after app and software updates
- Started after a major iOS or Android update
Try troubleshooting steps like restarting your phone, factory reset, or contacting device support if you suspect a phone hardware or compatibility issue.
What should I do if all troubleshooting fails?
If you still face WhatsApp call crashes after trying all recommended troubleshooting, here are a few last things to try:
- Contact WhatsApp support
- Check WhatsApp community forums
- Use an alternative like FaceTime, Skype, or Google Duo
- Backup chats and reinstall WhatsApp
- Perform a warranty repair or replace device
Persistent crashing issues may require help from WhatsApp tech support or your device manufacturer.
WhatsApp Call Crashing Troubleshooting Table
| Issue | Possible Cause | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Call disconnects | Poor internet connection |
|
| App crashes or closes | Corrupt app data |
|
| Can’t initiate call | Outdated WhatsApp version |
|
| Frequent crashes | Software incompatibility |
|
| Call fails instantly | Account or server issues |
|
This table summarizes the most common WhatsApp call crashing issues, potential causes, and troubleshooting steps to resolve them.
WhatsApp Call Crashing Prevention Tips
Here are some tips to help prevent WhatsApp call crashes:
- Keep WhatsApp updated to the latest version
- Update your phone’s operating system regularly
- Close background apps before making WhatsApp calls
- Disable battery optimization for WhatsApp (Android)
- Ensure adequate storage space on your phone
- Use a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection
- Turn on Airplane mode during bad network conditions
- Clear WhatsApp cache and data periodically
Following these best practices will help minimize app crashes and ensure smooth WhatsApp calling.
WhatsApp Call Alternatives
If you continue facing WhatsApp call issues, here are some alternative calling options:
| App | Platforms | Video Call | Group Call |
|---|---|---|---|
| FaceTime | iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Facebook Messenger | iOS, Android, Web | Yes | Yes |
| Skype | iOS, Android, Windows, Web | Yes | Yes |
| Google Duo | iOS, Android | Yes | Yes |
| Zoom | iOS, Android, Windows, Web | Yes | Yes |
Consider alternative calling apps if WhatsApp isn’t meeting your needs. Many offer comparable features and reliability.
Conclusion
WhatsApp calls failing can certainly be annoying. However, a few simple troubleshooting steps will usually get voice and video calls working again in no time.
Start by verifying your internet connection is stable. Also update WhatsApp, reset the app, restart your device, and check for any known outages. Clearing app data and resetting network settings can fix software conflicts.
In most cases, WhatsApp calls start working properly after basic troubleshooting. But if not, factory reset your device or contact WhatsApp support for further help. Consider alternative calling options as well.
With over 1 billion users worldwide, WhatsApp call crashes are bound to occur occasionally. But some quick problem-solving should have you back to smooth voice and video chats.