How do I fix my microphone on WhatsApp video call?

It can be very frustrating when the microphone stops working during a WhatsApp video call. This issue prevents you from being heard clearly by the other person on the call. There are a number of potential causes for the microphone not working properly on WhatsApp video chats. In this guide, we will outline the main troubleshooting steps to try and resolve the problem so you can get back to seamless video calling on WhatsApp.

Check Microphone Settings

The most common reason for microphone issues on WhatsApp video calls is that WhatsApp does not have access to the microphone. On iPhones, you need to enable microphone access in the device settings. To do this:

Go to the Settings app and select WhatsApp. Make sure the Microphone toggle is turned on and enabled for WhatsApp (https://www.gastrohonesdale.com/telehealth-services/how-do-i-enable-mic-and-camera-access-for-whatsapp-for-iphone). If the microphone access is disabled, toggle it on. This will allow WhatsApp to access the microphone when making calls.

You can also check the microphone permissions under Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Make sure WhatsApp is toggled on. If not, enable it.

On Android, open Settings > Apps & notifications > App permissions > Microphone and ensure WhatsApp has permission to access the microphone. Toggle it on if disabled.

Granting microphone access to WhatsApp in the device settings is crucial for the app to be able to use the microphone during video calls. Check this setting first if your microphone is not working.

Check Microphone Hardware

One of the most common causes of microphone issues on WhatsApp video calls is a problem with the physical microphone hardware. Start by inspecting your microphone and headset for any signs of damage or obstructions. Look for things like:

• Dirty or blocked microphone ports – Carefully clean out any debris with compressed air.
• Damaged or frayed microphone cables – Replace any visibly damaged cables.
• Improperly connected cables – Disconnect and reconnect headset cables securely.
• Broken/missing microphone boom or headset – Test with another known working microphone.

If you are using the built-in microphone on a phone or laptop, check for any obstructions covering the microphone port. Also inspect the port for dust, debris or damage. Refer to your device manual if needed to locate the exact microphone position.

Testing with multiple microphones can help narrow down hardware issues. If the microphone works properly when connected to a different device, then there may be a problem with the microphone settings or hardware on the original device causing WhatsApp issues.

If you have eliminated software issues, and the microphone still does not work across multiple devices, then it likely indicates a hardware failure requiring headset/microphone replacement.

Sources:
https://musiciannerd.com/articles/microphone-problems-and-solutions
https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-10-common-microphone-issues-fixes/

Update WhatsApp

One of the first troubleshooting steps when experiencing microphone issues on WhatsApp video calls is to make sure you’re using the latest version of the WhatsApp app. WhatsApp regularly releases updates that include bug fixes and performance improvements.

On iOS devices, open the App Store and check for any available updates for WhatsApp. Tap ‘Update’ to install the latest version. On Android, open the Google Play Store, go to the WhatsApp page and tap ‘Update’ if an update is available (WhatsApp for Android Download APK Free – 2.24.2.20). You can also enable auto-updates in your device settings so WhatsApp updates automatically.

Updating to the latest version can resolve microphone glitches and other issues that may have been addressed in recent updates. Make sure to install any available updates before troubleshooting further.

Restart Devices

One of the most common and effective troubleshooting steps for any technical issue is to restart both devices. Fully powering off and back on can help clear any software bugs, memory issues, or processes contributing to microphone problems in WhatsApp calls. As the article on Lifewire explains, “Rebooting any device is usually as simple as shutting it off and then turning it back on again. If it doesn’t have a power button or restart option, unplugging it from power for at least 10 seconds can also work.”

To troubleshoot microphone issues on WhatsApp video calls, the first step is to completely restart both the devices involved in the call – whether it’s two smartphones, a smartphone and a computer/tablet, or any combination. Follow these steps:

1. Fully power off the first device by holding down the power button until it shuts down. Wait at least 10 seconds before powering it back on.
2. Do the same process to fully restart the second device.
3. Once both devices are fully restarted, try making a WhatsApp video call again.

As explained in the article from York University, “rebooting solves many issues especially those that come up at the wrong time.” Restarting can reset any temporary glitches leading to microphone problems on WhatsApp calls. If the issue persists after restarting both devices, move on to the next troubleshooting steps.

Clear Cache and Data

One way to fix microphone issues in WhatsApp is to clear the app’s cache and data. The cache stores temporary files and data on your device which can sometimes become corrupted or too large, causing performance issues. Clearing the cache removes these temporary files and gives the app a fresh start.

To clear the WhatsApp cache on an iPhone ^[1]:

1. Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
2. Select WhatsApp.
3. Tap Offload App or Offload Unused Apps to clear the cache.

On an Android ^[2]:

1. Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Select WhatsApp.
3. Tap Storage & Cache > Clear Cache or Clear Data.

Clearing both the cache and app data will free up space as well as reset WhatsApp to default settings which can resolve issues like microphone problems. Just be aware it will delete your local WhatsApp data like messages so backup chats first if needed.

Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp

Uninstalling and reinstalling WhatsApp can often fix issues with the app not functioning properly. This resets the app and clears out any corrupt files or cached data that may be causing problems.

To uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp on an Android device:

1. Open your phone’s Settings app.
2. Tap Apps or Application Manager.
3. Find WhatsApp in the list and tap it.
4. Tap Uninstall.
5. Confirm that you want to uninstall WhatsApp.
6. Once it has finished uninstalling, go to the Google Play Store and search for WhatsApp.
7. Tap Install to download and install the app again.

Reinstalling the app gives it a clean slate, which can resolve many issues caused by corrupt data or update problems. Make sure to back up your WhatsApp data before uninstalling so you don’t lose your messages and media. After reinstalling, restore your chat history and settings using your backup.

If the microphone problem persists even after reinstalling WhatsApp, it’s likely caused by another issue, like your Android version or microphone hardware. But uninstalling and reinstalling the app is a worthwhile troubleshooting step that often resolves app problems.

Reset Network Settings

If other troubleshooting steps have not resolved the microphone issue in WhatsApp video calls, resetting the network settings on your device may help. This resets all network connections like Wi-Fi, mobile data, and Bluetooth.

On an iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset and tap “Reset Network Settings” to reset them. This will not delete any data or media, but you will need to rejoin Wi-Fi networks and re-pair Bluetooth devices (source).

On Android, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth. Tap “Reset settings” and confirm. This resets Wi-Fi passwords, mobile networks, and Bluetooth pairs, but does not delete any data or installed apps (source).

For Windows 10 and 11, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. Select “Reset now” and wait for your device to restart (source).

Resetting the network settings often resolves connectivity issues that can interfere with the microphone in WhatsApp video calls. If the problem persists after this, contact WhatsApp support for further assistance.

Contact WhatsApp Support

If you are still unable to resolve the microphone issue after trying all the troubleshooting steps, you may need to contact WhatsApp support directly for further assistance. Here are some options for getting in touch with WhatsApp support:

You can contact WhatsApp support from within the app by going to Settings > Help > Contact Us. This will open up a chat with the WhatsApp support team where you can explain your microphone issue and get help fixing it.

You can also visit the WhatsApp Contact Us page on their website to contact support. Here you can send a message to the support team explaining your microphone problem.

For urgent real-time support, you may want to try calling the WhatsApp support phone number at (866) 751-3284. This will allow you to speak directly with a WhatsApp agent who can troubleshoot your microphone situation.

As a last resort, you can email WhatsApp support at [email protected] with details about the microphone issue you are facing during video calls. This email goes directly to their support team.

When reaching out to WhatsApp support, be sure to explain exactly when and how the microphone stops working during video calls. Providing as many details as possible will help their team resolve your issue quickly.

Conclusion

In summary, there are a number of troubleshooting steps you can take if your microphone is not working properly during WhatsApp video calls.

First, check your microphone settings in your phone’s settings app and in WhatsApp to make sure the microphone access is enabled. You’ll also want to inspect your physical microphone hardware to ensure there is no debris blocking the mic.

Updating to the latest version of WhatsApp is another good step, as bugs get fixed in new releases. Restarting your phone and the device you are calling can help clear any software glitches. Clearing the cache and data for WhatsApp will reset the app and could resolve microphone issues.

As a last resort, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling WhatsApp, or resetting your network settings through your phone’s settings. If all else fails, contact WhatsApp support for further troubleshooting.

With some patience and systematically working through these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to get your WhatsApp video call microphone working again.