How to fix WhatsApp Messages Not Delivering in Background

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, used by millions to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. However, a common issue that many users face is messages not delivering when the app is running in the background. This can lead to frustration, as you might miss important conversations or notifications. If you’re experiencing this issue, don’t worry—there are several ways to fix WhatsApp messages not delivering in the background.

Common Causes of WhatsApp Messages Not Delivering

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why WhatsApp messages may not deliver while the app is in the background. Some common causes include:

1. Battery Optimization Settings: Many smartphones have battery-saving features that prevent apps from running in the background.
2. Data Restrictions: Mobile networks or Wi-Fi networks might restrict background data usage.
3. App Permissions: If the app doesn’t have the necessary permissions, it might not work properly in the background.
4. Poor Network Connectivity: A weak or unstable internet connection can cause WhatsApp messages to fail when the app isn’t in the foreground.
5. Outdated WhatsApp Version: Running an outdated version of WhatsApp may cause bugs or performance issues.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix WhatsApp Messages Not Delivering in Background

1. Disable Battery Optimization for WhatsApp

On both Android and iOS devices, battery optimization can interfere with how WhatsApp functions in the background. To ensure that WhatsApp runs smoothly, you’ll need to disable battery optimization for the app.

For Android:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and select Battery.
3. Tap on Battery Optimization or Battery Saver.
4. Find WhatsApp in the list of apps and select it.
5. Choose Don’t Optimize to ensure WhatsApp can function in the background without restrictions.

For iPhone: Battery optimization on iOS is handled automatically. However, make sure that WhatsApp can fetch data in the background.

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on WhatsApp.
3. Ensure that Background App Refresh is enabled.

2. Check Background Data Usage

If WhatsApp isn’t delivering messages in the background, there might be a restriction on background data usage.

For Android:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap on Data Usage or Network & Internet.
3. Select Data Saver and make sure it’s turned off or that WhatsApp is excluded from data saver mode.
4. Next, go to Apps & Notifications > WhatsApp > Data usage.
5. Ensure Background data is turned on.

For iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down to WhatsApp and tap on it.
3. Ensure that Cellular Data is turned on.
4. Go back to Settings, and tap General.
5. Ensure Background App Refresh is enabled.

3. Ensure Proper Network Connectivity

A poor or unstable internet connection can prevent WhatsApp from receiving messages in the background. Make sure you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular data network. You can also try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the issue persists.

Example: If you’re at home and using Wi-Fi, but messages aren’t delivering, try switching to mobile data to check if the issue is with the Wi-Fi connection.

4. Update WhatsApp

An outdated version of WhatsApp might contain bugs that cause delivery issues in the background. Keeping your app up to date ensures that you benefit from the latest bug fixes and improvements.

1. Open the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone).
2. Search for WhatsApp.
3. If there’s an update available, tap Update.

5. Check for App Notifications Settings

Sometimes, WhatsApp notifications may be turned off or restricted. Ensure that notifications are enabled to receive alerts for new messages, even if the app is in the background.

For Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on Apps & Notifications > WhatsApp > Notifications.
3. Ensure that all notification settings are turned on.

For iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on Notifications.
3. Find WhatsApp and ensure that notifications are enabled with the correct settings (e.g., banners, sounds, etc.).

6. Reinstall WhatsApp

If none of the above solutions work, there might be a more significant issue with the app’s installation. Reinstalling WhatsApp can help reset any corrupted files or settings.

1. Backup your chats: Open WhatsApp, go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup, and tap Back Up Now.
2. Uninstall WhatsApp from your phone.
3. Reinstall WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
4. Restore your chats after reinstalling the app.

7. Check for System Updates

Sometimes, system updates include fixes for underlying issues that might be affecting how apps work. Ensure that your phone’s operating system is up to date.

For Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on Software Update.
3. If an update is available, download and install it.

For iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to General > Software Update.
3. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Conclusion

WhatsApp messages not delivering in the background can be frustrating, but the issue is usually easy to fix. By following the steps above, such as disabling battery optimization, checking data settings, and ensuring your app is up to date, you can ensure that your messages are delivered without delay—even when WhatsApp is running in the background. If the problem persists, you may want to reach out to WhatsApp support or check for any known outages affecting the service.

Remember, troubleshooting these issues is a process, and it may take a combination of solutions to get everything working perfectly again.