Although WhatsApp’s maximum file size limit for media is capped at 16 MB, there are several hacks to send large videos over the popular instant messaging platform. The problem arises when you can’t play the received videos on WhatsApp. Before you ask the recipient to send the video again, use the tricks below to fix the WhatsApp videos not playing issue.
Despite the media size limitation, WhatsApp remains the preferred choice among consumers and businesses due to its large user base. Video not playing on WhatsApp can confuse you and even force you to use an alternative. Let’s troubleshoot the problem once and for all.
1. Download the Full Video
If you are on a slow network connection, it may require some time to download the WhatsApp video fully. If you try to play a video before the download process completes, you may receive an error during video playback.
You need to download the WhatsApp video and hit the play button. Continue reading if you still run into errors during WhatsApp video playback.
2. Save the Video on Phone
If WhatsApp’s default video player is broken or corrupt, save the video on your phone and use the built-in video player in the Gallery app.
iPhone
Step 1: Open a conversation in WhatsApp and download the video.
Step 2: Long-tap on the video and select Save.
Open the Photos app and try playing your WhatsApp video.
Android
Step 1: Go to any conversation in WhatsApp for Android. Tap on a received video to start the download process.
Step 2: Select a video and tap the three-dot menu at the top. Select Save.
You can find the same in Google Photos on Android.
3. Enable Auto-Save in WhatsApp
If you don’t want to save every WhatsApp video manually, enable auto-save from the app settings. However, be careful before you follow the steps below. It may open floodgates for all the irrelevant media files you receive on WhatsApp. It can also quickly fill up the device storage.
iPhone
Step 1: Open WhatsApp and tap the Settings icon in the bottom-right corner. Select Storage and data.
Step 2: Tap Video and enable auto-download over Wi-Fi and mobile data. WhatsApp now auto-downloads all incoming video files.
Step 3: Go back to Settings and select Chats. Enable the ‘Save to Camera Roll’ toggle. The app saves all your downloaded videos to the gallery app.
Android
Step 1: Launch WhatsApp and tap the three-dot menu at the top. Select Settings.
Step 2: Tap Storage and data. Select ‘When connected to Wi-Fi.’
Step 3: Tap the checkmark beside Videos.
Step 4: Move to Settings and select Chats.
Step 5: Enable the Media visibility toggle.
All your received WhatsApp videos are readily available to play in the gallery app.
4. Ask the Person to Send the Video Again
Did you receive a corrupt video over WhatsApp? You may run into download and playback errors. You need to ask the recipient to resend the video.
5. Check the Network Connection
If your phone has network connection issues, you may run into trouble with downloading videos. You should connect to a high-speed Wi-Fi network or reset it using Airplane mode.
You can enable the Airplane mode and disable it after a few seconds. If the network issues persist, reset network settings and try again.
6. Check WhatsApp Status
If WhatsApp servers are down, you can’t download and play videos. You can head to Downdetector and search for WhatsApp to confirm the problem. You need to wait for WhatsApp to troubleshoot server-side problems.
7. Use a Third-Party Video Player
Did you receive an MKV or HEVC video file over WhatsApp? Your phone’s default gallery app may not be compatible with such video extensions. You need to use a third-party video player for smooth streaming. VLC is one of the most well-known video players out there. You can download it and your WhatsApp videos without any problem.
8. Update WhatsApp
WhatsApp videos not playing can be due to an outdated app on your phone. You should update WhatsApp to the latest version from the Play Store or the App Store and try again.
9. Join WhatsApp Beta
WhatsApp may have fixed the video playback error in a beta build. Sign up for WhatsApp beta from the Play Store app info menu. iOS users need to download the Testflight app and use the link below to join the WhatsApp beta program.
Receive and Play Your Vacation Videos on WhatsApp
WhatsApp not playing videos can irritate you, especially when waiting for an essential clip to arrive. Which trick worked for you? Share your findings in the comments below.
Last updated on 23 August, 2023
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.
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