How to Fix “Unable to Initiate Call” Error in WhatsApp

Quick Tips

• If you’re experiencing the “Unable to Initiate Call” error in WhatsApp, go to Downdetector.com and ensure WhatsApp servers aren’t down.
• Disable data saver and protect IP address in calls on WhatsApp. These settings might be hindering you from calling.
• The last resort is to reset network settings to resolve any connection- or settings-related issues.

Basic Fixes

• Check WhatsApp server – If the server is facing the issue, you can’t make WhatsApp calls from any device, say iPhone or Android phone, Mac, or Windows, Go to Downdetector and see if WhatsApp is trending. If yes, wait for WhatsApp to fix the issue.
• Disable VPN – Sometimes VPNs can interfere with internet connectivity and an app’s functioning. Try turning it off for a while and see WhatsApp calls go through. You can enable it later as and when needed.
• Turn off data saver and battery saver – Both low-data mode and low-power mode can interfere and cause the unable to initiate a call error in WhatsApp. Toggle these settings off and try making a WhatsApp call.
• Switch network – Sometimes, the issue could be in your network only. So, switch between Mobile data to Wi-Fi or vice versa and see if the problem is resolved.
• Clear WhatsApp cache (Android) – Maybe you’re not able to make a WhatsApp call due to corrupted cache files. Since clearing the cache will only make the app run smoother, do it without hesitation.
• Update or reinstall WhatsApp – A bug or glitch in the app could be behind the error. Update the app if available to fix the issue. You can also delete and reinstall the app for a complete reset (ensure WhatsApp data is backed up).

Adjust WhatsApp Call Settings

While WhatsApp provides the following settings for our benefits, they might be behind the unable to initiate call error. So, I suggest you disable the settings temporarily and see if it works.

Fix 1. Disable Data Saver for WhatsApp Calls

WhatsApp provides a native setting to lower data usage. If your internet is slow and the setting is enabled, it might cause your calls to fail on WhatsApp. Disable it for now and see if things improve.

Step 1: Go to WhatsApp Settings. Tap Storage and Data.

Step 2: Here, toggle off ‘Use less data for calls‘ from under the Network section.

Fix 2. Disable Protect IP Address in Calls

While the feature is introduced to hide your IP address from potential threats, it might be hindering you from making that call. Similar to how VPNs can interfere with network connections.

To disable it, go to WhatsApp Settings → Privacy → Advanced → toggle off Protect IP Address in calls. After this try making a voice or video call, hopefully, they’ll not fail this time.

Fix 3. Remove Any Linked Devices

Linked devices can sometimes interfere with the proper functioning of WhatsApp. Say, no sound during voice or video calls, links not opening, etc., So it’s wise to log out from all linked devices for the time being.

To do so, go to WhatsApp Settings → Linked Devices → tap the device → Log out → Log out again to confirm.

Once the issue is resolved, you can link your devices again to have a seamless WhatsApp experience across multiple devices.

Fix 4. Reset Mic and Camera Permissions For WhatsApp

The major cause of trouble behind WhatsApp calls is the lack of proper permissions. Even if WhatsApp has permission to access the microphone and camera, there could be a setting-related issue or glitch in the system.

So, toggle off the permission and toggle it on to reset and get rid of the issue.

Check WhatsApp Permissions on Android

Step 1: Open Settings on your phone. Go to Apps or Apps & notifications.

Step 2: Search and select WhatsApp. Tap Permissions.

Step 3: Here tap Camera and Microphone. Tap Don’t Allow and restart the WhatsApp app.

Step 4: Once done, tap Camera/Microphone and choose Allow only while using the app.

Check WhatsApp Permissions on iPhone

Step 1: Open the Settings app, and scroll down to WhatsApp. If you’re using iOS 18 or above, tap Apps → WhatsApp.

Step 2: Here, toggle off the switch next to the Microphone and Camera. Force quit WhatsApp and enable the permissions again.

Fix 5. Reset Network Settings

Both Android and iPhone provide a native setting to restore network settings to their original values. Doing so fixes any network-related issues and does not delete data from your phone. Learn in detail what happens by resetting network settings.

So, if you are still facing Unable to Initiate Call error in WhatsApp, let’s give this method a shot.

On iPhone

Step 1: Go to Settings → General. Here, scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 2: Tap Reset.

Step 3: Next tap followed by Reset Network Settings. Enter your device password.

Step 4: Tap Reset Network Settings to confirm the action.

On Android

Step 1: Go to Settings apps. Select General management from the menu.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap Reset. Here, select Restore network settings.

Step 3: Tap Reset settings and then Reset to confirm the action.

FAQs For Unable to Initiate Call Error in WhatsApp