Top 8 Ways to Fix Instagram Calls Not Working on Android
Instagram allows you to connect with your favorite people through voice and video calls. Co-watching and other features make Instagram calls more enjoyable. However, if Instagram calls stop working on your Android phone, these features become pointless. Before switching to another app, try the troubleshooting tips below to fix the issue.
1. Make Sure Your Internet Works
Instagram relies on mobile data to function. Check if your network connection is active and working. Test your internet connection by opening an app like YouTube and streaming a video. Run internet speed tests on your phone.
If the internet seems fine, start troubleshooting the Instagram app. If not, switch to a different network connection before using the Instagram app.
2. Check Instagram App Permissions
Next, ensure that Instagram can access essential system components for making and receiving calls. For example, Instagram needs access to your phone’s camera and microphone for audio and video calls. It also requires permission to display notifications for incoming calls. Follow these steps to verify app permissions for Instagram on Android.
Step 1: Long-press the Instagram app icon and tap the info icon in the menu.
Step 2: Tap Permissions.
Step 3: Enable each permission individually.
Step 4: Go back to the App info page and tap Mobile data. Then, enable toggles for ‘Allow background data usage’ and ‘Allow data usage while Data saver is on.’
Restart the Instagram app and check if the problem persists.
The data saver feature in the Instagram app is useful when you have low mobile data. However, leaving it on all the time can impact audio and video calls. Disable the data saver feature in Instagram when not needed.
To disable the feature:
1. Go to the profile tab in the Instagram app.
2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
3. Select Settings from the menu.
Step 3: In the Settings menu, tap on Account and select ‘Cellular data use’ from the menu.
Lastly, toggle off Data Saver.
After completing the steps, start a call in the Instagram app and see if it works as expected.
4. The Other Person Has Restricted You
If you’re having trouble reaching someone on Instagram, they may have restricted you. In that case, your Instagram call screen will display ‘Calling’ instead of ‘Ringing’ even if the person is online.
Unlike blocking someone on Instagram, there’s no way to know for sure if you’ve been restricted. You can try calling someone else to see if the issue is only with one person.
5. Unmute Notifications for Calls
Instagram offers options for managing notifications. Check the app’s notification settings if you’re not receiving alerts for incoming calls.
Step 1: Open Instagram on your phone and go to the profile tab.
Step 2: Tap the hamburger menu icon in the top-right corner and select Settings.
Step 3: Tap on Notifications, select ‘Messages and Calls’ from the menu.
Step 4: Under Video Chats, select ‘From People I Follow’ or ‘From Everyone’
6. Check If Instagram Is Down
Server outages can cause Instagram calls to not work. These occurrences, while infrequent, do happen. To check if others are experiencing the same problem, you can visit a website such as Downdetector on your phone or computer.
If there is a server problem, you will notice outage spikes. In that case, you’ll need to wait for Instagram to fix it. It may take several hours in some cases.
7. Clear Instagram App Cache
Overburdening or corrupt app cache could cause Instagram calls to not work. Luckily, it’s safe and easy to clear the Instagram app cache on Android. Here’s how:
– Step 1: Long press the Instagram app icon and tap the info icon from the menu.
Step 2: Go to Storage and tap Clear cache in the bottom right corner.
8. Update the Instagram App
When was the last time you updated the Instagram app on your phone? If you can’t recall, you’re probably using an outdated version of the app. Updating the app can help resolve issues, including this one. Hence, it’s crucial not to ignore them.
Go to the Play Store to update the Instagram app. After that, Instagram calls should work.
Time to Make Some Calls
Sending a direct message is sometimes insufficient. Instagram’s calling feature allows you to see or hear the other person. If you use Instagram calls to communicate with loved ones, you may want to resolve these issues quickly. Review our solutions and share which one works in the comments below.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
My articles cover a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting out-of-sync audio on TikTok and managing Firestick devices, to understanding the impact of Capcut on video quality and resolving sound issues on Hisense Roku TVs.
I also delve into more general tech tips, like how to block numbers on landlines or use VPNs without Wi-Fi. My goal is to make technology more accessible and less intimidating for everyone, whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user. I strive to offer clear, concise, and helpful advice to make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.