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Why is WhatsApp call ringing but unavailable?

WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to exchange texts, photos, videos and make voice and video calls easily. However, many users face issues like WhatsApp call ringing but not connecting. This can be frustrating if you are trying to make an important call. Here are some potential reasons and fixes for WhatsApp call ringing but unavailable.

Possible Reasons for WhatsApp Call Ringing But Not Connecting

There could be several reasons why your WhatsApp call rings but does not connect:

  • Poor internet connection
  • Issues with phone software/OS
  • Incompatible versions of WhatsApp
  • Issues with WhatsApp servers
  • Call connectivity issues
  • Do Not Disturb mode enabled
  • Blocked contacts
  • Banned WhatsApp account
  • Issues with phone hardware

Let’s look at these potential causes in more detail:

Poor Internet Connection

One of the most common reasons for WhatsApp call not connecting despite ringing is poor internet connectivity. WhatsApp relies on a stable internet connection for voice and video calls. If you or the recipient has slow mobile data or WiFi connectivity issues, it can lead to call drops even if the call rings initially.

Issues with Phone Software/OS

Problems with your phone’s software or operating system can also cause WhatsApp call issues. For example, if you have an outdated OS version that has bugs affecting WhatsApp functionality, it may result in call connectivity problems. Reinstalling WhatsApp or upgrading your phone’s OS may help.

Incompatible Versions of WhatsApp

If you and your recipient have different WhatsApp versions that are not fully compatible, it can sometimes lead to calls ringing but not going through. Try ensuring both you and the recipient have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.

Issues with WhatsApp Servers

WhatsApp relies on its servers to facilitate messaging and calls. Any downtime or technical issues on WhatsApp’s servers can lead to problems like call connectivity failure. Unfortunately, there is not much you can do except wait for WhatsApp to resolve any server-side problems.

Call Connectivity Issues

There may be general call connectivity issues due to your phone service provider or local mobile networks. Restarting your phone and checking for any network outages in your area could help identify any such external call problems.

Do Not Disturb Mode Enabled

If you or your recipient have Do Not Disturb mode enabled in your phone settings, WhatsApp calls will ring but will not actually go through. Check your phone settings and turn off DND if enabled to fix this.

Blocked Contacts

If either you or the recipient have blocked each other’s contacts, WhatsApp calls will ring but will fail to connect. Unblocking the contacts should resolve this problem.

Banned WhatsApp Account

In rare cases, if your WhatsApp account gets banned due to violations, your calls may ring but you will be unable to make or receive them. You would need to appeal the ban to regain WhatsApp access.

Issues with Phone Hardware

Faulty microphone, speaker or other hardware issues with your phone can also lead to WhatsApp call problems. You may need to get your phone checked or repaired if the issues persist.

Fixes and Solutions for WhatsApp Calls Not Connecting

Based on the possible reasons above, here are some troubleshooting tips and solutions to try if your WhatsApp call rings but does not connect:

Check Your Internet Connection

First, try checking your internet connectivity – switch between WiFi and mobile data to see if that fixes the WhatsApp call issue. Also try moving closer to the WiFi router or stepping outside to get better mobile data signals.

Restart Your Phone and WhatsApp App

Restarting your phone and the WhatsApp app can help resolve any temporary glitches that may be preventing call connectivity. Power cycle your phone and launch WhatsApp again.

Update WhatsApp to the Latest Version

Ensure both you and your recipient have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. Outdated versions can suffer from bugs and connectivity issues in calls.

Disable DND Mode

Check your phone’s settings to confirm Do Not Disturb mode is turned off. DND can silence WhatsApp calls and prevent them from connecting.

Unblock Any Blocked Contacts

If you have blocked the recipient’s contact or vice versa, unblock each other to allow WhatsApp calls to connect again normally.

Troubleshooting Step Details
Check internet connection Switch between WiFi and mobile data. Move closer to WiFi router or step outside to improve mobile data signals.
Restart phone and WhatsApp Power cycle your phone and restart the WhatsApp app to clear out any temporary glitches.
Update WhatsApp Install latest WhatsApp version on your phone and recipient’s phone.
Disable DND mode Turn off Do Not Disturb mode in your phone’s settings.
Unblock contacts Unblock your contact on the recipient’s phone and vice versa.

Check for WhatsApp Outages

Check the WhatsApp status page to see if there are any known technical issues or outages with WhatsApp servers that could be affecting connectivity.

Update Your Phone Software/OS

Updating to the latest OS version can help fix bugs that may be preventing WhatsApp calls from going through. Back up your data and install the newest OS update.

Contact Your Network Provider

For recurring WhatsApp call issues, contact your cellular network provider and check if there are any known technical issues in your locality that could be affecting services.

Reset Network Settings

On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings to reset all network connectivity settings which may fix WhatsApp call problems.

Factory Reset as Last Resort

If all else fails, consider doing a factory reset to wipe out any software issues causing WhatsApp calls to not connect. Backup all important data first before resetting your device.

Preventative Measures

While the above should help troubleshoot and fix WhatsApp call connectivity issues, you can also take some preventive measures:

  • Always ensure you have a stable WiFi or mobile data connection.
  • Keep your WhatsApp version up to date.
  • Do not block contacts unless absolutely necessary.
  • Check for WhatsApp outages if calls fail unexpectedly.
  • Maintain your phone’s OS and security updates.
  • Do not root or jailbreak your phone as it increases security risks.

Conclusion

WhatsApp calling is very convenient when it works properly. However, call connectivity can fail sometimes despite the call ringing. The common reasons for this include poor internet, outdated app versions, blocks, Do Not Disturb mode etc. Try the troubleshooting steps listed above to identify and resolve the specific issue you are facing. With a bit of effort, you should be able to fix Why WhatsApp call is ringing but not available and enjoy seamless call connectivity.