Snapchat is a popular social media app that allows users to send photos, videos, and messages that disappear after being viewed. One of Snapchat’s features is the ability to make video calls with friends. However, many users have experienced calls ending abruptly and unexpectedly on the app.
Reasons for Random Call Disconnections
There are a few potential reasons Snapchat calls can disconnect randomly:
Unstable Internet Connection
One of the most common reasons for Snapchat calls dropping is an unstable internet connection. Snapchat video calls require a consistent and strong WiFi or mobile data connection to function properly. Any disruption to the internet can cause the video feed to freeze, pixelate, and eventually disconnect entirely.
Factors that can contribute to an unstable internet connection include:
- Weak WiFi signal
- Switching between WiFi and mobile data
- Network congestion
- Using up your monthly data allowance
- Bandwidth throttling by your internet service provider
If you are experiencing frequent dropped calls, try moving closer to your WiFi router, disabling other bandwidth-intensive apps, or switching to mobile data. An ethernet cable can also help stabilize an otherwise spotty WiFi connection.
Call Time Limit
Snapchat imposes a time limit on video calls, cutting them off after a certain duration. The exact time limit seems to vary, with some reporting call cutoffs between 10-30 minutes. This is likely done to conserve server resources and prevent excessively long calls from overloading the system. If you hit the time cap, your call will abruptly end.
App Issues
Like any software platform, Snapchat can have occasional glitches and bugs. Sometimes app crashes, freezes, or unexpected errors can cause a call to end prematurely. Issues on Snapchat’s servers could also interrupt connections. Restarting the app and your device can help resolve transient app problems. Make sure you are also running the latest version of Snapchat, as updates often patch bugs affecting call stability.
User’s Internet Disconnects
If the other user you are calling loses their WiFi or mobile data connectivity, it will disconnect the call for both parties. Their connection issues could be caused by the same factors covered earlier, like weak signal or a data cap. When internet access is restored, either person can attempt to restart the call.
User Closes the App
The call will instantly end if the other user closes the Snapchat app or forcibly swipes it away to quit. Accidentally tapping the home or power button can also minimize Snapchat and interrupt an ongoing call. One party intentionally quitting the app is another simple reason video chats can disconnect.
Restrictive Networks
Some network environments deliberately block or heavily restrict services like Snapchat. For example, schools and workplaces often limit social media and video streaming on their WiFi networks. Using Snapchat calls on such networks can result in connections dropping when usage is detected and interfered with. Switching to a personal LTE data connection may help bypass these restrictions.
Phone Overheating
Processor-intensive apps like Snapchat can cause some devices to overheat, especially during lengthy video calls. Thermal throttling then kicks in, slowing device performance to cool it down. This can degrade the internet connection and cause the call to fail. Giving your phone a rest and preventing it from overheating in the first place can help.
Exceeding Account Limits
In some cases, making an excessive number of Snapchat calls in a short time period can trigger account limitations. This may cause connections to start failing as a spam prevention measure. Spreading out your calls over time avoids hitting call frequency caps.
How to Fix and Prevent Call Disconnections
If your Snapchat calls are plagued by random disconnections, there are some troubleshooting steps you can take:
Check Your Internet Connection
As outlined earlier, an unstable internet pipeline is the leading cause of dropped Snapchat calls. Run some internet speed tests and see if connections are fast and consistent enough to support HD video calling:
- WiFi should test over 10 Mbps download speed
- Mobile data should show at least 3G connectivity
If possible, move closer to your WiFi router or switch to mobile data to strengthen the connection.
Restart Your Device and App
Quickly rebooting your phone and relaunching Snapchat can clear out minor glitches causing calls to prematurely end. Forcing the app closed and restarting it ensures all components load fresh.
Update Snapchat
Install the latest version of Snapchat if available. Staying updated takes advantage of bug fixes and performance improvements.
Disable Battery Saver
Check that battery saver or power saving mode is disabled on your phone. These features can throttle connectivity when activated.
Close Other Apps
Keep Snapchat as the only app running when making calls. Background apps can consume resources needed for optimal call performance.
Avoid Multitasking
Don’t juggle other tasks and apps while on Snapchat calls. Giving Snapchat full device priority prevents disruptions.
Check for Overheating
Feel if your phone is getting hot when video calling. Overheating may indicate performance is being lowered. End the call and let your phone cool off if needed.
Change Locations
If using WiFi, try moving to another room closer to your router for a stronger signal. Switch to mobile data if WiFi is too unstable.
Avoid Network Restrictions
When possible, use a personal internet connection instead of school or workplace WiFi that may restrict Snapchat usage.
Space Out Calls
Limit Snapchat call frequency and duration to avoid hitting any automatic usage caps enforced by the app.
Other Snapchat Call Tips
Here are some other best practices to improve Snapchat call reliability:
- Set your phone to airplane mode and re-enable WiFi for clearer calls.
- Reduce glare if calling in a bright environment.
- Use headphones to avoid echo and enhance audio quality.
- Take calls in a quiet area without loud ambient noise.
- Clear old conversations and snaps to free up storage space.
- Disable unnecessary system animations in developer settings.
Third Party Apps
If you continue havingcall issues in Snapchat, consider third party apps that offer video chat over internet data like WhatsApp, FaceTime Audio, Facebook Messenger, Skype, Google Hangouts or Viber. These may provide better call stability and reliability. Just keep in mind any person you are calling will also need the same app installed.
Contacting Snapchat Support
If troubleshooting does not resolve your Snapchat call disconnections, reach out to Snapchat Support through the in-app support menu. They may be able to identify any problems on your account causing connectivity issues during calls.
Conclusion
Snapchat call drops can occur due to problems like poor internet, time limits, app crashes, overheating phones, and restrictive networks. Testing your connection speed, restarting your device and app, closing other apps, updating Snapchat, changing locations, spacing out calls, and contacting support are some ways you can attempt to fix call stability problems. With some tweaking, you can hopefully enjoy smooth uninterrupted Snapchat calls going forward.