Basic Fixes
- Check WhatsApp servers – The culprit behind WhatsApp calls getting stuck at connecting could be server issues. Visit Downdetector and search for WhatsApp. If you notice high outage graphs, wait for WhatsApp to fix the issue from their end.
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data – This could also happen if the internet connection isn’t stable. Switch your connection type to ensure a speedy and stable connection.
- Enable/disable Airplane mode – If you constantly face issues with network connectivity on your iPhone, toggle Airplane mode on and off. Now, try again and see if you can call.
- Disable low data mode – When low data mode is enabled, the system disables some features, which might cause problems with connecting calls on WhatsApp. Disable the setting and see if things improve.
- Force quit and open WhatsApp – Even a minor setting- or connection-related can cause issues during WhatsApp calls. Restarting the app could help fix the underlying issue.
- Update or reinstall WhatsApp – Calls getting stuck at connecting might be due to a bug in the app. Try updating or reinstalling the app to fix it.
Fix 1. Check Necessary Permission for WhatsApp
WhatsApp needs permission to access your device’s microphone and camera to make calls. And most of the time WhatsApp will notify you if it does not have these permissions. However, there’s a chance it isn’t notifying due to some error.
So, if your WhatsApp calls are getting stuck at connecting, check if WhatsApp has the necessary permissions.
On iPhone – Go to Settings > scroll down to WhatsApp > ensure that the toggle next to Microphone and Camera is turned on.
On Android – Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Permission → Tap Microphone and select ‘Allow only while using the app‘. Repeat the same for the Camera.
When using external devices like speakers or TVs to relay or cast WhatsApp calls, also check permission for nearby devices (Android). If disabled it could lead to calls stuck on connecting. To do so, go to Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Nearby devices → Allow.
Fix 2. Disable Less Data for Calls Option in WhatsApp
WhatsApp offers a built-in setting to allow data saving during calls. However, this setting might interfere with the quality of the call, including calls stuck at connecting. So, let’s toggle it off and see if this resolves the issue.
Step 1: Open WhatsApp. Tap Settings from the bottom-right corner (iPhone) or tap the three-dot icon > Settings (Android)
Step 2: Select Storage and Data and disable the ‘Use Less Data for Calls’ toggle.
Fix 3. Disable Protect IP Address In Calls
Another WhatsApp setting that could interfere with voice or video calls is hiding the IP address. It redirects your calls through WhatsApp’s servers, which if not in its prime can affect the call quality and connection.
Check if the settings are enabled and disable it to have a smoother calling experience.
Step 1: Go to the WhatsApp Settings tab. Tap Privacy from the menu.
Step 2: Here, scroll to the bottom and tap Advanced. Toggle off the switch next to ‘Protect IP address in calls‘.
Fix 4. Reset Network Statistics in WhatsApp Settings
WhatsApp keeps a detailed log of data it has used till now. While the chances are slim, an error or glitch can arise during this monitoring, affecting your network connectivity. In turn, this could stop you from making calls.
We can reset these statistics to get rid of the error and get back the calling functionality. To do so, go to WhatsApp Settings > Storage and data > Network usage > scroll down and select Reset statistics > Reset statistics again to confirm the action.
Fix 5. Reset Network Settings
This might be your last resort to fix WhatsApp calls stuck at connecting. It factory resets all your network-related settings such as Wi-Fi passwords, VPNs, etc. But most importantly it fixes errors that might be causing any connection-related issues.
To Reset Network Settings on iPhone
Step 1: Open iPhone Settings > General.
Step 2: Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone. Here, tap Reset followed by Reset Network Settings.
Step 3: Enter your password to confirm the action.
To Reset Network Settings on Android Devices
Note: The steps may vary depending on your Android device.
Step 1: Go to your phone’s Settings > General management.
Step 2: Tap Reset. Select Reset network settings from the menu.
Once the network reset is complete, try calling someone from WhatsApp. Hopefully, it won’t be stuck at connecting anymore.
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Last updated on 03 August, 2024
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