Snapchat’s video calling feature allows users to make video calls to friends and family directly within the app. However, sometimes this feature doesn’t work as expected and video calls fail or can’t connect. There are a few potential reasons why Snapchat video calling may not be working.
Issues with Snapchat Servers
One of the most common reasons why Snapchat video calling fails is issues on Snapchat’s end. Like all apps, Snapchat relies on servers to route calls and transmit video. If there are outages or disruptions with Snapchat’s servers, it can prevent video calls from going through. Snapchat has millions of daily active users, so their servers have to work hard to keep up with demand. Server overloads can happen if too many people try to use video calling at the same time. Planned maintenance and unexpected technical problems with Snapchat’s infrastructure can also lead to temporary downtime for video calling. If you’re having trouble connecting to a call, check Snapchat’s server status page or Twitter to see if others are reporting widespread issues. The problem should resolve itself once their systems are back up and running smoothly.
Connectivity Problems
Your own internet connection could also be the culprit behind video call failures. Snapchat video calling requires a relatively fast and stable internet connection to work properly. On mobile devices, you’ll need a solid WiFi or cellular data connection. If you’re using a weak WiFi network, one that’s far away from your router or experiencing interference, video quality and connection stability may suffer. Bandwidth from mobile data networks can fluctuate too, especially if you’re in a poor service area. Using Snapchat video calling eats up data quickly, so an unstable mobile connection can disrupt the call. Make sure you’re connected to a strong WiFi network or have at least 3-4 bars of cellular service when trying to use the video calling feature. Troubleshoot your network connection by running a speed test and contacting your ISP or cell provider if needed.
Individual Device Issues
Problems with your particular device could also get in the way of Snapchat video calls working correctly. Make sure your device is up to date with the latest version of Snapchat from the App Store or Google Play Store. Older versions of the app may have bugs or missing features that affect video calling. Outdated operating system versions can also cause conflicts. Make sure your iPhone, Android, or other device is updated to the newest OS firmware. Rebooting your phone before a video call can help clear any glitches too. Check that the cameras on your device are clean and not obstructed as well. Low storage space, outdated apps, and device malware may also impact Snapchat’s performance too. General technical issues like these can interfere with video calling functionality.
Account and Permissions Problems
Issues with your individual Snapchat account could affect video calling as well. Make sure your Snapchat app has been granted the proper permissions to access your phone’s microphone and cameras. You can check this in your device’s app settings. Enabling permissions allows Snapchat to use your hardware for video calling. Also check that your Snapchat account itself hasn’t been locked, banned, or restricted at all which could block access to video calling. Log out of your account and log back in to reset everything. You can also try re-installing the Snapchat app entirely to rule out a corrupted install. Make sure your friend’s Snapchat account is in good standing as well and that they have video calling enabled.
Troubleshooting Steps
If Snapchat video calling isn’t working for you, here are some troubleshooting steps to try:
- Force quit and relaunch the Snapchat app
- Reboot your mobile device
- Check for Snapchat service status updates and outages
- Connect to a different WiFi network or use mobile data
- Update your devices operating system
- Update the Snapchat app to the latest version
- Grant microphone and camera permissions for Snapchat
- Clear the Snapchat app cache and data
- Uninstall and reinstall Snapchat
- Try calling a different friend on Snapchat
Following these troubleshooting steps can help identify and resolve many common issues that may be preventing Snapchat video calls from connecting.
Video Call Quality Issues
If your Snapchat video call is connecting but the quality is poor, there are a few things you can try. Low video resolution, choppy frame rates, freezing, and audio issues can happen even when a call is connected.
Here are some potential fixes for quality problems on Snapchat video calls:
- Check your internet speeds with a speed test and contact your ISP if needed
- Improve WiFi signal by moving closer to the router or eliminating interference
- Toggle on/off airplane mode to force reconnection
- Close down any bandwidth-intensive apps running in the background
- Adjust video call quality in Snapchat settings
- Clean camera lenses which may be blurred, smudged, or obstructed
- Wipe phone cache and data to clear up potential software issues
- Update to the latest version of the Snapchat app
Adjusting these settings, connections, and troubleshooting mobile issues can improve call quality.
Using Snapchat Video Calling Features
When Snapchat video calling is working, here are some tips for getting the most out of the feature:
- Swipe up to open your Snapchat camera and tap the video icon in the top right corner to initiate a call
- Select a friend’s name from your Snapchat friends list to video call them
- Tap and hold on the screen during a call to switch between front and rear facing cameras
- Double tap to toggle between filling the screen or showing both callers’ video windows
- Use Snapchat lenses, filters, and stickers to customize your call and make it more fun!
- Change your microphone and speaker audio sources in Snapchat settings
- Enable “Save Memory” to automatically delete call history after 24 hours
Following call etiquette like avoiding distracting backgrounds and muting when not speaking also helps ensure quality calls.
Conclusion
Snapchat video calling is a fun and convenient way to connect visually with friends when it’s working properly. Connection issues, device problems, app bugs, and user errors are the most common reasons why Snapchat video calling may fail or have quality issues. Checking for outages, improving WiFi and cellular signals, updating software, troubleshooting device issues, and adjusting Snapchat settings are some ways to get video calling working again. With some diligent troubleshooting, you can get Snapchat video calls connecting reliably. The feature brings messaging and visual communication to life when functioning at its best.