Quick Troubleshooting Guide
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Can't hear messages / No sound | Volume, Proximity Sensor | Jump to Fixes 1-3 |
| Can't record / message stops at 0:07 | Screen Protector, Storage | Jump to Fixes 4-5 |
| Voice message won't send/download | Network, Permissions | Jump to Fixes 6-8 |
Although WhatsApp is regularly updated, many users still face issues where WhatsApp voice messages are not working. Whether your microphone isn't recording, the audio stops at 7 seconds, or you simply can't hear incoming notes, this guide covers 13 proven solutions for both Android and iPhone users.
In this article
Why Are WhatsApp Voice Messages Not Working?
The "voice message not working" error usually stems from one of three areas: hardware interference (screen protectors), software permissions, or network blocks. Common triggers include:
- Proximity Sensor Interference: Causes the screen to go black or audio to switch to the earpiece unexpectedly.
- Microphone Permissions: WhatsApp lacks access to record audio.
- Storage Full: Audio files cannot be downloaded or saved.
- Outdated App Version: Bugs in older versions of WhatsApp.
Part 1: Fixes If You Can't HEAR Voice Messages
If you receive voice notes but they play silently, sound muffled, or turn your screen black, try these fixes.
Method 1: Increase Media Volume (Not Just Ringer)
It sounds simple, but often your Media Volume is muted while your Ringer Volume is high. Play a voice message and immediately press the Volume Up button to adjust the media output level specifically.
Method 2: Remove Screen Protector (The "Black Screen" Fix)
Is your WhatsApp voice message stopping at 0:07 or turning the screen black?
This is a proximity sensor issue. WhatsApp thinks you are holding the phone to your ear, so it switches audio from the main speaker to the quiet earpiece and turns off the screen. Thick screen protectors or cases often cover this sensor.
Fix: Try removing your case or screen protector, or simply move your hand away from the top of the phone while listening.
Method 3: Check Bluetooth Connections
If your audio seems "lost," your phone might be connected to a paired Bluetooth device (earbuds, car speaker) in another room. Turn off Bluetooth from your Quick Settings menu to force audio back to the phone speaker.
Part 2: Fixes If You Can't RECORD or SEND Messages
If the microphone icon isn't working, or messages fail to upload, follow these steps.
Method 4: Check Microphone Permissions
If you can't record at all, WhatsApp likely lost permission to use your mic.
- For Android phones: Open Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Permissions. If the Microphone and Storage is not enabled, then toggle it on.
- For iPhone: Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Enable the toggle for WhatsApp.
Method 5: Close Other Recording Apps
WhatsApp cannot record if another app (like Voice Recorder, Zoom, or a background call) is currently using the microphone. Close all background apps and try again.
Method 6: Check Network & Airplane Mode
Voice messages require more data than text. If messages are stuck on "Connecting...", toggle Airplane Mode on and off to reset your network connection.
Method 7: Clear Phone Storage
If your phone storage is full, WhatsApp cannot save the recorded audio file to send it. Go to Settings > Storage and delete old videos or files to free up space.
Method 8: Update WhatsApp
An outdated version of WhatsApp may have bugs related to audio codecs. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and update to the latest version.
[Crucial Step] Backup WhatsApp Before Reinstalling
If none of the above fixes work, your last resort is to uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp (Method 13). However, doing this will delete your chat history and voice notes if not backed up properly.
Before you uninstall, we bly recommend using Wondershare MobileTrans - WhatsApp Transfer. Unlike iCloud/Google Drive which can overwrite old backups, MobileTrans creates a secure copy on your PC that you can restore anytime.
Steps to Backup Voice Messages:
Follow the below steps to transfer your WhatsApp voice messages via MobileTrans:
Step 1. Launch MobileTrans & Connect Phones
- Open MobileTrans on your PC → Select "App Transfer > WhatsApp".
- Connect both phones to your computer. The system will automatically load WhatsApp data.
- Click "Start" (text messages transfer by default for speed; optional manual selection).
Step 2. Complete Transfer
- Do not disconnect devices during transfer.
- Once finished, check WhatsApp on the target device to verify data.
Conclusion
Voice messages are essential for quick communication. Usually, the issue is minor—like a blocked proximity sensor causing a black screen (Method 2) or disabled microphone permissions (Method 4).
If you must perform a clean install to fix the bug, don't forget to protect your data first using MobileTrans. Did these fixes work for you? Share this guide to help others!
FAQs
-
Why does my WhatsApp voice message stop at 7 seconds?
This is often caused by a screen protector covering the proximity sensor. Your phone thinks your ear is touching the screen, so it stops recording or switches audio. Try removing the case or screen protector. -
Why can't I hear WhatsApp voice messages on my ear?
Ensure the proximity sensor isn't dirty. Also check if your volume is set to “Headphones” mode, especially if you recently disconnected a Bluetooth device. -
How to retrieve deleted voice messages?
If you have a backup (Google Drive, iCloud, or MobileTrans), you can restore it. Without a backup, professional data recovery software may be required.
