Family Video Call Not Working? Simple Steps To Fix It

One of the best things about the internet is that it allows us to stay in touch with our kids and grandkids, no matter how far they are.

Video calls are a great way to enjoy quality time with family, but they can turn from pure delight to utter frustration in moments.

If you run into technical issues on your next family video call, use this guide to solve your problem.

Mic not working

The days of silent movies are over! If your loved one is cupping their ear dramatically or sending frantic “I can’t hear you” text messages, there’s something wrong with your audio.

Fix #1: Check your mute button

It’s easy to accidentally press the mute button with your cheek. Look for the microphone icon. It will be white if you’re active, and gray, crossed out, or blacked out if you’re on mute. Tap it to change the setting.

Fix #2: Make sure you aren’t covering your microphone

Your mic is located at the bottom of your phone, in a series of tiny holes. Make sure nothing (like your hand or a phone case) is covering the mic.

Camera not working

All black can be a good outfit choice, but it’s not a good way to show up in a family video. If your self-view screen is blacked out, you’re not on a video call. You’re watching a movie.

Fix #1: Check app permissions

Sometimes, updates to an app will change its permissions within your phone. If you’re in a video call but your self-view screen is black, open your phone’s settings. Find the app you’re using, and make sure your camera (and mic) are enabled.

Fix #2: Make sure you can see your own camera

Sometimes, your camera can get physically blocked by a case or even your finger. It’s the modern-day equivalent of leaving your lens cap on. Just make sure you can see your camera (or all the way to the top of your phone), and you should be OK.

Poor audio quality

Great audio makes for great video calls. If you can’t clearly understand your caller, or they can’t understand you, it’s time to troubleshoot.

Fix #1: Switch to earbuds or headphones

You can clear up most audio issues with headphones, whether you use an audio jack or a Bluetooth connection. Using them should stop any feedback issues between your phone’s microphone and its speakers. Headphones can also help with background noise, since they double as earplugs.

Fix #2: Make sure your phone’s camera is pointed directly at your face

The latest smartphones use fancy tech like mic directionality and background noise reduction on video calls, but you have to make sure you can see your own face on camera. Look for your own face in the small self-view window at the bottom of your screen.

Frozen screen

Frozen is a Disney princess movie that your granddaughter probably loves, but it’s not how you want to see her on a Sunday afternoon. Unfortunately, a frozen screen means hanging up and starting over.

Fix #1: Close and reopen your app

A frozen screen might be a problem with your video app. Close it by swiping away, then restart the call. If that doesn’t work, try restarting your device.

Fix #2: Check your internet connection

End the call, then check your Wi-Fi network. Check your connection by opening your settings app (usually a gear icon) and tapping the network button (a small radar signal).

Choppiness

No, your daughter’s probably not trying to perform the robot dance. That’s so 1974. If your video is jumping around like a scratched DVD, your connection may be struggling to keep up.

Fix #1: Get a better signal

If you’re on Wi-Fi, move closer to your router and make sure there’s nothing interfering with your signal, like a wall, fridge, or fish tank. If that doesn’t work, try disconnecting from your Wi-Fi and using your mobile data instead.

Blurry video on a call isn’t necessarily a reason to call the optometrist. If your video is blurry (either in your self-view or main view), try these simple fixes.

Fix #1: Clean your phone

Phones travel with us everywhere, and that means they pick up dirt, grime, and fingerprints along the way. Wipe down your own phone and camera with a soft cloth, and ask the person on the other end of the call to do the same (especially if you suspect a sticky toddler handprint may be involved).

Fix #2: Check your self-view vs. the main view

If your self-view is clear but your incoming video is blurry, it might be a connection issue on the other end. Ask your family members to improve their connectivity by moving closer to their router or switching to mobile data.

My take: Video calls are worth getting right

Spending time with family matters more and more the older we get, but things like distance and busy schedules make it difficult.

Video chat can be tricky at first. You’ll need a little time to get set up, and you’ll need to spend a little money on a good smartphone and a solid internet connection. Then, you’ll need some persistence and a little curiosity.

Just be willing to experiment and laugh at your mistakes, and you’ll have it down in no time. And trust me, it’s worth it. There’s nothing quite like seeing your grandbaby laugh or congratulating your kid on that big raise or first home. Catching up with friends is great, too! Video calling makes it possible, no matter how far away they are.