WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to easily connect with friends and family through messages, voice notes, video calls and more. However, many users have experienced the frustration of trying to make a WhatsApp call, only to find it gets stuck on hold or doesn’t connect at all.
Common reasons for WhatsApp calls on hold
There are several common reasons why your WhatsApp call may get stuck on hold or not go through:
- Poor internet connection – For WhatsApp calls to work properly, both you and the recipient need a stable internet connection. If either of your connections is slow or intermittent, it can prevent the call from connecting.
- Outdated app version – Make sure you and the person you are calling have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. Older versions may have bugs or connectivity issues.
- Recipient unavailable – If the person you are trying to call is busy with another call, has Do Not Disturb enabled, or their phone is off, your call will go unanswered.
- App backgrounding/quitting – The WhatsApp app needs to remain open in the foreground for calls to connect. If either user backgrounds the app or force quits during calling, it will cause issues.
- Issues with phone software/settings – Problems with your phone’s OS, incorrect network/data settings or third-party apps interfering with WhatsApp could prevent calls.
- Banned account – If either user’s account has been banned from WhatsApp, they will be unable to place or receive calls.
- Network restrictions – Some cellular networks and Wi-Fi hotspots block VoIP/video calling on apps like WhatsApp.
- Incorrect permissions – WhatsApp requires certain permissions to access your microphone, contacts, storage etc. Disable any required permissions may cause calls to fail.
- Temporary WhatsApp outage – Server outages at WhatsApp can also occasionally disrupt call services.
How to fix WhatsApp calls stuck on hold
If your WhatsApp calls are frequently getting stuck on hold or not connecting, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Check your internet connection – Restart your router/modem, connect to a different Wi-Fi network or use mobile data. This will rule out any issues with your existing connection.
- Update WhatsApp – Go to your app store and download the latest version of WhatsApp.
- Force close and restart the app – Completely close out of WhatsApp and restart to clear out any glitches.
- Update your phone software – Install the newest OS and security updates available for your device.
- Disable battery optimization – Turn off any battery optimization settings for WhatsApp that could be force closing it in the background.
- Check app permissions – Make sure WhatsApp has all the required permissions enabled to function properly.
- Clear app cache/data – This wipes any corrupt data or files that could be causing conflicts.
- Try calling over Wi-Fi/mobile data – Switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data to see if one network has an issue.
- Check if calls work in safe mode – Boot your phone into safe mode and test calls to see if any third party apps are interfering.
- Factory reset device – As a last resort, backup data and reset your phone to factory settings.
Preventing WhatsApp calls from getting stuck
To avoid having your WhatsApp calls get stuck on hold going forward, keep these tips in mind:
- Ensure you have a strong internet connection whenever making or answering a call.
- Close unused apps running in the background that could disrupt WhatsApp.
- Update WhatsApp frequently whenever new versions are released.
- Don’t manually close or force quit WhatsApp while on a call.
- Check that your phone has the latest software updates installed.
- Disable battery saver modes, power saving settings or screen optimization that could impact WhatsApp.
- Give WhatsApp the proper permissions it needs to function optimally.
- Keep your phone storage cleared out to avoid performance issues.
- If issues persist, report bugs or problems directly to WhatsApp.
Other WhatsApp call troubleshooting tips
Here are some additional tips to resolve other common WhatsApp call problems:
Can’t make calls
- Confirm calling is enabled in WhatsApp settings
- Allow WhatsApp access to your microphone if disabled
- There may be an internet connectivity issue
- The recipient’s phone could be off or have Do Not Disturb enabled
Calls disconnect during a call
- An unstable internet connection can drop calls – switch networks
- Limit background app activity on your phone during calls
- Avoid moving out of cellular range if on mobile data
- Disable battery saver mode or limit performance throttling
Poor call quality
- Use WhatsApp’s built-in call diagnostics to check connection status
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router or switch to mobile data
- Close other apps running in the background
- Clean out app cache/data and restart your phone
Can’t receive calls
- Make sure Do Not Disturb mode is disabled
- Allow WhatsApp access to notifications in your settings
- Another call may already be in progress – check the Calls tab
- Your internet connection may be having issues
Conclusion
Getting stuck on hold can be a frustrating issue when trying to use WhatsApp call features. Fortunately, this problem can often be resolved by troubleshooting your internet connectivity, updating the app, adjusting permissions and settings or clearing app data. Ensuring you have optimal signal strength and the latest WhatsApp version installed are good preventative measures as well. With a few simple checks and tweaks, you can get WhatsApp calls working smoothly again.