Many whatsapp users have experienced a frustrating problem: incoming whatsapp voice or video calls don’t ring or show up properly when the phone is locked. Instead, the call may appear silently, or you only see a notification without sound or a full‑screen alert. This can cause missed calls even when your device is running whatsapp normally.
The good news is this usually isn’t a permanent bug — it’s due to settings or battery/network restrictions on your device, and you can often fix it yourself.
🔔 Why This Happens
When a phone is locked or in sleep mode:
- Apps can be restricted from running in the background.
- System features like Do Not Disturb (DND) or Battery Saver can suppress sounds and alerts.
- Background data might be blocked, preventing whatsapp from receiving call notifications in time.
📲 Step‑by‑Step Fixes for Android & iPhone
1. Check whatsapp Notification Settings
Make sure whatsapp can show alerts and play sounds:
- Android: Long‑press whatsapp > App info > Notifications → Turn all whatsapp notifications ON.
- iPhone: Settings > whatsapp > Notifications → Enable Allow Notifications.
Also enable lock screen alerts so calls show up even when your phone is asleep.
2. Turn Off Do Not Disturb / Focus Mode
When DND or Focus is on, all notifications (including whatsapp calls) may be silenced.
- Android: Swipe down the status bar → Turn OFF Do Not Disturb.
- iPhone: Swipe down Control Center → Tap Focus/DND to turn it off.
3. Enable Background Data / App Refresh
WhatsApp needs permission to run and receive data in the background:
- Android: Settings → Apps → whatsapp → mobile data & Wi‑Fi → Turn ON Background data and Unrestricted data use.
- iPhone: Settings → General → Background App Refresh → Enable for WhatsApp.
4. Disable Battery Saver / Power‑Saving Modes
Battery saver modes often restrict background activity, which can stop whatsapp from alerting you:
- Android: Settings → Battery → Battery Saver/Power saver → Turn OFF.
- iPhone: Settings → Battery → Low Power Mode → Turn OFF.
5. Update whatsapp & System Software
Running an older version can have bugs:
- Open Google Play Store or App Store → search WhatsApp → Tap Update (if available).
- Also keep your phone’s operating system up to date.
6. Restart the Phone
A simple restart can clear temporary glitches and background app problems — it often fixes missed call notifications.
7. Extra Android Tip: Full‑Screen Alerts
On some Samsung/Android phones, you may need to grant full‑screen alerts:
- Settings → Apps → Special access → Full‑screen alerts → Enable for WhatsApp.
This makes sure the incoming call takes over the lock screen.
📌 Additional Tips
- Check that your ringer volume is turned up (especially on iPhone).
- Make sure your phone isn’t connected to Bluetooth accessories that might route sound elsewhere.
📍 Summary
If whatsapp calls don’t ring when your phone is locked, it’s usually due to background restrictions, DND, battery saver modes, or notification settings. You can fix it by:
Allowing whatsapp notifications and lock screen alerts.
Enabling background data/app refresh.
Turning OFF Do Not Disturb and battery saver.
Updating the app and restarting the phone.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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