WhatsApp is a favorite messaging app for many, connecting billions of people globally. But sometimes, things don't go as smoothly as we'd like. Ever tried making a WhatsApp call and gotten hit with a frustrating "Unavailable WhatsApp Call" error? It's more common than you might think, and it can really put a damper on your day.
In this comprehensive article, we'll explain exactly what "WhatsApp Call Unavailable" means (especially when you are not blocked), why it happens, and the steps you can take to fix it on both iPhone and Android devices.
In this article
Part 1: What Does Unavailable WhatsApp Call Mean?
The "WhatsApp Call Unavailable" error typically occurs when you try to make a call, but the app fails to establish a connection. Unlike a "Call Declined" or "Busy" signal, "Unavailable" usually points to a technical hurdle rather than user rejection.
Common symptoms include:
- The call rings for a split second and disconnects with the "Unavailable" message.
- You can send messages (two ticks), but calls won't go through.
- The screen stays on "Connecting..." for too long before failing.
Part 2: Why Is WhatsApp Call Unavailable?
Before jumping to fixes, it is crucial to understand why this is happening. Many users ask: "Why can't I call someone on WhatsApp but I'm not blocked?" Here is the breakdown.
1. Are You Blocked? (The "Not Blocked" Confusion)
If you see the "Unavailable" error, you are likely NOT blocked. If you were blocked, you typically wouldn't see the person's profile picture updates, and your messages would stay at one grey tick (Sent) and never turn to two ticks (Delivered).
If your messages are delivered (double ticks) but calls are unavailable, the issue is usually:
- Regional Restrictions: The recipient is in a country that blocks VoIP calls (e.g., UAE, Dubai, Qatar, China). Messages work, but calls are blocked by the ISP.
- Privacy Settings: The recipient may have restricted who can call them in their privacy settings.
- Background Data Restricted: The recipient's phone might be in "Do Not Disturb" or battery saver mode, preventing the call from waking up their device.
2. Other Top Reasons
- Unstable Internet: Weak Wi-Fi or switching between data/Wi-Fi often drops calls.
- Outdated App Version: Older versions may not support newer encryption protocols for calls.
- Missing Permissions: If the microphone or camera permission is disabled on either end, the call will fail immediately.
Part 3: How to Fix WhatsApp Call Unavailable on iPhone/Android
Now that we've identified the causes, let's dive into the 6 proven steps to fix the "unavailable WhatsApp call" problem.
1. Connect to a Stable Internet Connection
A weak connection is the #1 culprit. Even if messages are going through, calls require more bandwidth.
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to reset your network.
- Switch from Wi-Fi to Mobile Data (or vice versa) to see if the issue persists.
2. Grant Necessary App Permissions to WhatsApp
If WhatsApp cannot access your microphone, it will end the call instantly. Ensure permissions are active.
For iPhone users:
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Check both "Microphone" and "Camera." Ensure the toggle for WhatsApp is ON.
For Android users:
- Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp.
- Tap "Permissions" and allow access to Microphone and Camera.
3. Disable Low Data Mode
Some devices or network settings have a "Low Data Mode" or "Data Saver" feature that can limit the data usage of apps, including WhatsApp. When this mode is enabled, WhatsApp calls may become unavailable or experience quality issues.
To disable the low data mode, follow these steps:
For iPhone users:
- Launch the "Settings" app on your iPhone. Tap on "Battery”.
- Scroll down and find the "Low Data Mode" toggle, and make sure it is turned off.
For Android users:
- Head to Settings > Network & internet and then select "Data Saver." Alternatively, you can also swipe down from the main screen to access the “Data Saver” option.
- Make sure the "Use Data Saver" toggle is turned off.
Disabling the low data mode can help restore the availability of WhatsApp calls on your device.
4. Clear WhatsApp Cache
Clearing the WhatsApp cache can sometimes help resolve the "WhatsApp temporarily unavailable" issue. The cache stores temporary data that the app uses to improve performance, but it can sometimes become corrupted or outdated, leading to various problems.
To clear the WhatsApp cache, follow these steps:
For iPhone users:
- Launch the Settings app and head to General > iPhone Storage.
- Look for WhatsApp in the list and then select it. Hit the “Offload App” option and then reinstall the app on your device.
For Android users:
- Head to Settings. Tap on "Apps" or "Applications" and then select WhatsApp.
- Tap on "Storage & cache" and then select "Clear cache."
Clearing the WhatsApp cache can help resolve any temporary data issues and potentially fix the "unavailable WhatsApp call" problem.
5. Update WhatsApp to the Latest Version
If you're using an outdated version of the WhatsApp app, it may not be compatible with the latest call features or infrastructure, leading to the "WhatsApp is temporarily unavailable" error. To resolve this issue, make sure to update your WhatsApp app to the latest version.
For iPhone users:
- Open the App Store on your iPhone. Search for "WhatsApp" and check if there's an available update.
- Tap on the "Update" button to download and install the latest version of the app.
For Android users:
- Go to the Google Play Store on your Android phone. Search for "WhatsApp" and see if there's an update.
- Tap "Update" to get the newest version of the app.
After updating the WhatsApp app, try making a call again to see if the issue has been resolved.
6. Try Calling After a While
If you have tried all the above, the issue might be on WhatsApp's server end. Wait for 15-30 minutes and try again. Sometimes, local network congestion causes temporary unavailability.
[Bonus] Transfer WhatsApp Data to an Available Phone Easily
If your current phone has persistent hardware or software issues causing calls to fail, you might consider switching devices. If you are switching from Android to iPhone, you can use Mutsapper to keep your chats safe.
Mutsapper allows you to seamlessly transfer your WhatsApp data (chats, media, call logs) without factory resetting your iPhone.
Here's how you can use the Mutsapper to transfer your WhatsApp data:
FAQ
-
Why can't I call someone on WhatsApp but they can call me?
This is often due to a "Data Saver" setting on your phone restricting outgoing data, or a temporary ISP block on your end. It confirms that your account is not banned. -
What does "Unavailable" mean on WhatsApp call log?
It means the call was attempted but never established connection with the recipient's device. It is different from a "Missed Call" where the phone rang but wasn't answered. -
Does "Call Unavailable" mean I am blocked?
Usually, no. If you were blocked, the call would typically ring indefinitely (on your end) or fail silently, but you would also see no profile photo and one checkmark on messages.
Conclusion
The "WhatsApp Call Unavailable" issue is frustrating, but it is rarely permanent. By checking your internet, permissions, and ensuring you aren't in a restricted region (like Dubai), you can solve it quickly.
If the problem persists and you decide to change phones, tools like Mutsapper ensure you don't lose your important conversation history during the switch.
