Have you ever missed an important call on WhatsApp because the notification didn't appear on your phone screen? This problem may seem trivial, but it can have a big impact, especially if you're waiting for important news. What's more annoying is that sometimes the ringtone doesn't sound, the screen doesn't light up, and suddenly the incoming call only appears in the notification bar after it's missed.
So what causes it? And more importantly: how to fix it?
In this article, you will find a complete solution to fix WhatsApp call notifications not appearing on the screen. Not only that, you will also find out hidden settings that are often overlooked by users. Listen carefully until the end, because some steps that seem simple are actually the main key to preventing this problem from coming back.
Why Are WhatsApp Call Notifications Not Appearing?
Before getting into the solutions, it’s important to understand some common reasons why WhatsApp notifications — especially for calls — may not appear on the screen:
- Notification permissions were disabled accidentally
- Privacy settings are too strict
- The application has not been updated
- WhatsApp is restricted from running in the background
- Caller number is not saved in contacts
If one of the above happens, it is natural that call notifications do not appear, even though the internet connection is normal.
Step 1: Allow All WhatsApp Notifications
This is the first step you must check. Many users are not aware that WhatsApp notifications are actually limited.
How to enable notifications:
- Long press the WhatsApp application icon on the cellphone screen
- Select the 'i' icon in a circle or App Info
- Go to the Notifications or Alerts section
- Enable all types of notifications, especially Incoming Calls
If it is already active but still does not appear, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Restart your phone
This may seem trivial, but it often works. A phone that is rarely turned off can experience a buildup of cache or an outdated system. By turning off your phone for a moment and then turning it back on, you give the system a chance to reload all services, including WhatsApp call notifications.
Step 3: Force Quit WhatsApp and Reopen it
Sometimes, the application experiences minor glitches or bugs when running for too long.
The method:
- Open WhatsApp Application Info (long press the WA icon, then press the 'i' icon)
- Select Force Quit.
- Wait a few seconds, then reopen WhatsApp
After that, ask someone to call you via WA, and see if the notification has appeared on the screen.
Step 4: Update WhatsApp Application
An outdated version of WhatsApp can cause a lot of problems. Some older versions are not even compatible with Android system updates.
To update WhatsApp:
- Open Play Store
- Search WhatsApp
- If the Update button is available , press it and wait until it is finished.
After the update, notifications will usually return to normal.
Step 5: Make sure the caller number is in your contacts
This is one of the hidden causes that often goes unnoticed.
WhatsApp has a privacy feature that can mute calls from unknown numbers . So, if the person calling you is not in your contacts, the notification may not appear.
The solution:
- Save the number in your contacts
- Open WhatsApp, go to Settings
- Select Privacy
- Join the Call
- Disable the Mute Unknown Calls toggle
After this step, notifications from all WhatsApp calls — including those from the numbers you just saved — will reappear.
Additional Tips to Keep WA Notifications Appearing
Here are some additional tips to prevent similar problems from occurring again in the future:
Check battery settings
- Go to Settings > Battery > Application Management
- Find WhatsApp, then make sure it is not restricted in the background
Disable Do Not Disturb Mode
- This mode can block all notifications, including WhatsApp calls.
- Make sure the moon icon or “Do Not Disturb” sign is not active.
Use a stable network
- An unstable connection can hinder incoming WA calls.
- Use a stable WiFi or 4G/5G network
So Don't Ignore Notifications, They Could Be Important Signals
The problem of WhatsApp call notifications not appearing is often annoying. However, by following the steps above, you will not only solve the problem now, but also prevent it from happening again in the future.
Remember, communication is key in many ways — whether it’s for work, family, or emergencies. Don’t let yourself miss an important call because of a small setting you forgot.
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