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How to Fix WhatsApp Call Not Showing on Screen: A Deep Dive

So, you’re missing crucial WhatsApp calls because they aren’t popping up on your screen? Frustrating, isn’t it? As a seasoned tech troubleshooter, I’ve seen this issue countless times. The core problem usually boils down to permissions, battery optimization gone rogue, notification settings, or outdated software. Let’s unpack each culprit and get those calls back on your radar. The primary fix involves navigating your device settings to ensure WhatsApp has the necessary permissions for notifications and overlay display. Then, disable battery optimization for WhatsApp specifically. Verify your WhatsApp notification settings are correctly configured. Finally, check for and install any available app updates. By addressing these key areas, you’ll almost certainly resolve the issue.

Understanding the Root Cause

Before diving into fixes, it’s essential to understand why this happens. Modern operating systems are designed to prioritize battery life and user experience. This means that apps are often restricted in the background, notifications can be silenced, and “draw over other apps” permissions are limited. WhatsApp, to function correctly for incoming calls, needs to bypass these restrictions to notify you promptly, even when the app isn’t actively in use.

The Step-by-Step Fixes

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to get those WhatsApp calls showing up on your screen again:

1. Permission is Key: Granting Necessary Access

This is usually the first and most crucial step. WhatsApp needs explicit permission to display notifications and draw over other apps.

Android: Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Permissions. Ensure that Notifications are enabled (typically called “Allow notifications”). Also, look for a permission called “Draw over other apps” or “Display over other apps” (the exact wording varies depending on your Android version). Enable this permission. Without it, WhatsApp can’t display the incoming call screen when you’re using other apps.
iOS (iPhone): Go to Settings > WhatsApp > Notifications. Ensure that “Allow Notifications” is toggled on. Customize the alerts, sounds, and banners as desired. Make sure “Show in Lock Screen,” “Notification Center,” and “Banners” are all enabled if you want calls to be highly visible. There isn’t a direct equivalent to the “draw over other apps” permission on iOS, but ensuring notifications are enabled in all locations is vital.

2. Taming Battery Optimization: Exempting WhatsApp

Aggressive battery optimization can prevent WhatsApp from running in the background, delaying or even preventing incoming call notifications.

Android: Navigate to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Battery. Look for options like “Battery optimization” or “Background restriction.” Select “Not optimized” or “Unrestricted” for WhatsApp. The exact wording depends on your Android version and manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, etc.), so you might have to poke around a bit. Some devices also have a feature called “Adaptive Battery,” which learns your app usage patterns and restricts background activity for infrequently used apps. You might need to disable this entirely or make an exception for WhatsApp.
iOS (iPhone): iOS is less aggressive with battery optimization than Android, but it’s still worth checking. Go to Settings > Battery. Ensure that “Low Power Mode” is turned off. While not directly related to WhatsApp, Low Power Mode can reduce background activity and affect notification delivery.

3. Diving into WhatsApp Notification Settings: Fine-Tuning Alerts

WhatsApp has its own notification settings that can override your system-level settings.

Within WhatsApp: Open WhatsApp, tap the three dots (menu) > Settings > Notifications. Review the settings for both “Message notifications” and “Call notifications.” Ensure that notification tones are selected, vibration is enabled (if desired), and “Use high priority notifications” is enabled. High priority notifications are more likely to pop up even when your phone is in Do Not Disturb mode (with exceptions for priority contacts).

4. Updating WhatsApp: The Latest and Greatest

Outdated software can be buggy. Regularly updating WhatsApp can resolve numerous issues, including notification problems.

Android: Open the Google Play Store, search for WhatsApp, and tap “Update” if available.
iOS (iPhone): Open the App Store, tap your profile picture, and scroll down to see if there’s an update available for WhatsApp.

5. Reboot Your Device: The Universal Fix

Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches that are preventing notifications from appearing.

Android & iOS: Turn your phone completely off, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.

6. Checking Do Not Disturb Mode (DND): Silencing the World

Do Not Disturb mode silences all notifications (or allows only certain exceptions). Make sure it’s not accidentally enabled.

Android & iOS: Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the quick settings panel and check if the “Do Not Disturb” icon is enabled. On iOS, it might be called “Focus” now, and you can customize which apps and contacts can still send you notifications.

7. Clearing WhatsApp Cache (Android Only): A Fresh Start

Clearing the cache can sometimes resolve unexpected app behavior. Note: This is different from clearing data, which will delete your messages!

Android: Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Storage. Tap “Clear cache.” Don’t tap “Clear data” unless you’re prepared to re-login and potentially lose some data.

8. Reinstalling WhatsApp: The Last Resort

If none of the above solutions work, reinstalling WhatsApp can sometimes fix deeply embedded issues. Back up your chats before uninstalling to avoid data loss.

Android & iOS: Uninstall WhatsApp, then download and reinstall it from the Google Play Store or App Store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions related to WhatsApp call notification issues:

1. Why is WhatsApp not ringing when I get a call?

This is often related to notification settings within WhatsApp or the phone’s system settings. Check that notification sounds are enabled and not muted, and that “Do Not Disturb” is off.

2. How do I enable WhatsApp call notifications on Android?

Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Permissions and enable “Notifications.” Then, check WhatsApp’s in-app notification settings (Settings > Notifications) to ensure tones and vibrations are enabled.

3. Why are WhatsApp calls not showing on my iPhone lock screen?

Go to Settings > WhatsApp > Notifications and ensure “Show on Lock Screen” is enabled. Also, make sure “Allow Notifications” is toggled on at the top.

4. What does “Draw over other apps” permission mean for WhatsApp?

This permission allows WhatsApp to display the incoming call screen even when you’re using other apps. Without it, the call might not be visible until you switch to WhatsApp.

5. How does battery optimization affect WhatsApp call notifications?

Aggressive battery optimization can restrict WhatsApp’s background activity, delaying or preventing notifications from appearing promptly. Exempt WhatsApp from battery optimization.

6. My WhatsApp notifications are delayed. What can I do?

Check your battery optimization settings and ensure WhatsApp isn’t being restricted. Also, ensure you have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).

7. I have multiple WhatsApp accounts. Could that be causing issues?

Using third-party apps to clone WhatsApp or manage multiple accounts on the same device can sometimes interfere with notifications. Stick to the official WhatsApp app if possible.

8. I’ve tried everything, and WhatsApp calls still aren’t showing up. What now?

Contact WhatsApp support directly through the app (Settings > Help > Contact Us). They might have device-specific troubleshooting steps or be aware of ongoing issues.

9. Are there any known issues with specific phone models?

Some manufacturers (like Xiaomi or Huawei) are known for having particularly aggressive battery optimization settings that can interfere with notifications. Search online for “[your phone model] WhatsApp notifications not working” to see if there are specific solutions for your device.

10. Does my internet connection affect WhatsApp call notifications?

Yes, a stable internet connection is crucial. If your Wi-Fi is weak or your mobile data is unreliable, notifications might be delayed or missed entirely.

11. What if I have “Do Not Disturb” scheduled?

Scheduled “Do Not Disturb” periods will silence notifications during those times. Make sure you’re aware of your schedule and adjust it if needed. You can also set exceptions for specific contacts in the DND settings to allow their calls to come through.

12. Can VPN affect WhatsApp call notifications?

Yes, some VPN services can interfere with WhatsApp’s ability to deliver notifications reliably. Try disabling your VPN to see if it resolves the issue.