How to Fix WhatsApp Notifications Not Showing or Working (Proven Fixes)

Part 1. Why WhatsApp Notifications Are Not Showing or Working

Many times, it's confusing to understand why WhatsApp notifications are not working correctly. Before trying any fix, here are a few reasons to know what really causes this problem:

Application Level

• An app update missing may cause bugs that stop message alerts from showing.
• Muted chats prevent notifications and banners for selected contacts or groups.
• Disabled permissions stop WhatsApp from sending alerts on the lock screen.
• Cache overload makes app performance unstable and delays notifications.

System Level

• Battery saver mode limits app background activity, stopping message alerts.
• Notification settings disabled in the device block WhatsApp alerts without warning.
• Time zone errors lead to delayed notifications that appear hours after message arrival.
• Outdated system software can conflict with app functions and affect notifications.

Network Level

• Weak internet signals stop WhatsApp servers from pushing live message notifications.
• Background data restriction limits connectivity and affect message alerts.
• VPN usage may block communication with WhatsApp servers, leading to missed alerts.
• Router cache issues delay notification delivery despite having an active internet connection.

Server Side

• WhatsApp server outages temporarily block alerts and message notifications from reaching devices.
• Regional maintenance updates can pause alert syncing for users in certain areas.
• Server response delays create a timing mismatch between message sending and notification arrival.
• Overload on WhatsApp servers during peak hours slows prompt alert delivery.

User Settings

• Custom alerts are disabled, remove unique tones, and cause unnoticed new message arrivals.
• Blocked contacts stop alerts entirely for messages sent from restricted users.
• Profile privacy restricts visibility, limiting notification pop-ups from specific user groups.
• Notification tone changed to none leads to silent alerts that go unnoticed.

Part 2. Not Getting Notification on WhatsApp: 10 Quick Fixes to Try First

When you are not getting notification on WhatsApp, various effortless and quick solutions are available. The following quick fixes will help restore message alerts and keep notifications working:

Fix Common WhatsApp Notification Issues (iPhone & Android)

Many times, this issue occurs due to the app's notifications and its settings. So, this section covers the top 6 solutions to resolve the issue when you notice not getting WhatsApp notification:

Way 1: Check Internet Connection

The primary cause of missed alerts is usually a weak internet connection. You need to verify your internet connection to ensure the app can receive and deliver messages. Test your connection by opening a webpage or any other application. Unless it does, turn off Wi-Fi and turn on mobile data or reboot your router. Once the connection is stable, WhatsApp notifications will start appearing instantly again.

Way 2: Restart Your Device

You should also try to restart your device to fix many minor issues, including notification errors. It clears temporary data and refreshes background services that might block alerts. When the iPhone WhatsApp notification is not working, a simple restart restores normal performance. It requires no special skills and solves alert problems without complicated steps. So, go through the given guide to restart your smartphone:

For Android:

Press the "Power" key for a few seconds and tap the "Restart" option on the following screen.

For iPhone:

Tap both the "Power" and "Volume Up" buttons together and swipe right the "Slide To Power Off" slider. Upon waiting for a few seconds, press the "Power" key again to restart it.

Way 3: Enable WhatsApp Notifications (App and Device Settings)

In case WhatsApp is not showing notifications, the problem might be hidden in your settings. Many times, alerts are turned off mistakenly and stop messages from appearing on time. Before you enable everything, enable the app to issue notifications immediately. Besides, it will make you no longer miss a crucial chat or a message. Anyhow, take guidance from the steps below to enable notifications from your device's settings:

For Android:

As you head to the "Notifications & Status Bar" from the settings, find and enable the "WhatsApp" toggle.

For iPhone:

Upon accessing the "Notifications" settings, go to "WhatsApp" and turn on the "Allow Notifications" toggle.

Way 4: Check Notification Badge Settings

Your badge settings might also be disabled when you see no notification from WhatsApp. Notification badges show small dots or numbers on the app icon, signaling new messages. When this feature is off, you won't notice unread chats until the app is opened. It also helps you recognize new messages instantly without checking the app repeatedly. Thus, review the given instructions to enable badge settings on your phone:

For Android:

In the "Notifications & Status Bar" settings, tap the "Badge" option. After that, swipe up to locate and toggle on the "WhatsApp" app.

For iPhone:

From the "Notifications" settings, navigate to the "WhatsApp" section and enable the "Badges" feature.

Way 5: Unmute Chats in WhatsApp

This issue may also occur because some chats are muted without the user's knowledge. In case of a muted chat, you will not hear any message alert sounds. At this particular period, you are supposed to unmute that chat. It ensures all notifications play correctly, keeping you informed about every incoming message. Adhere to the given guide to fix the WhatsApp notification sound not working on Samsung and other phones:

For Android:

Press the Individual's chat for a few seconds and tap the "Bell" icon to unmute it.

For iPhone:

Swipe left to the unmute chat and tap the "More" option. Upon seeing the options, opt for the "Unmute" choice.

Way 6: Turn Off 'Do Not Disturb' Mode

When WhatsApp notifications are not showing, it may be because 'Do Not Disturb' mode is active. This feature silences all alerts, including incoming WhatsApp messages and calls. Once turned off, notifications will appear and sound normally again. This simple change ensures you receive every WhatsApp alert and keeps you aware of all new updates. Hence, go through the following instructions to disable this particular feature effortlessly:

For Android:

Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the "DND" feature to disable it.

For iPhone:

Access the "Control Center" by swiping down from the top right corner and tap the "Focus" feature. Afterward, opt for the "Do Not Disturb" option to turn it off.

Additional Quick Fixes if Notifications Still Don't Work

In case alerts are still missing, a few more quick fixes can help restore them. These additional methods focus on phone settings that delay notifications without you noticing:

Way 7: Check and Disable Battery Optimization/Power Saving Mode

Battery optimization or power mode can sometimes stop apps from sending timely alerts. It actually blocks background processes in an effort to increase battery life. Hence, you may notice WhatsApp notifications are not working even when the app is open. This ensures notifications arrive instantly without being delayed in the background. Review the solutions given below to help you turn off this feature:

For Android:

Initially, head to the "Battery & Power Saving" option and access the "Battery Saver" section. Subsequently, you need to disable the "Battery Saver" toggle.

For iPhone:

Upon navigating to the "Battery" settings section, turn off the "Low Power Mode" feature.

Way 8: Allow Background Data Usage for WhatsApp

Apart from that, background data might also be restricted if you are not getting notifications on WhatsApp. This limitation stops the app from connecting to the internet when it is not open. Allowing background data ensures the app runs effortlessly and receives messages at any time. Once turned on, it will stay active in the background and deliver notifications instantly without any delay. Thus, let's explore how you can enable background data usage:

For Android

1. Access WhatsApp App Settings

Go to the "App Management" section and access "App List" to choose the "WhatsApp" app.



2. Enable Background Data

Here, opt for the "Mobile Data & Wi-Fi" section and enable the "Background Data" toggle.

For iPhone

1. Access Background App Refresh Settings

Head to the "Background App Refresh" section from the "General" settings and tap "Background App Refresh."



2. Enable WhatsApp Background Data

Going ahead, choose the "Wi-Fi & Mobile Data" option and go back to check and enable the "WhatsApp" app toggle.

Way 9: Update WhatsApp to the Latest Version

It is also possible that your app version is outdated when you are not getting WhatsApp notifications. Older versions usually have bugs that affect message alerts and performance. Upon updating the app, it ensures you get the latest fixes and improved stability. Also, all notifications will appear correctly without any unnecessary delay or error. So, you should follow the steps below to know how to update an app:

For Android:

Search for the "WhatsApp" app on the "Play Store" and tap the "Update" button.

For iPhone:

Access the "WhatsApp" app on your "App Store" to hit "Update" if available.

Way 10: Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp

When all other fixes fail, reinstalling the app can help restore proper notification delivery. This method removes hidden glitches or corrupted files that stop alerts from appearing. Yet, back up your chats before uninstalling to avoid losing important messages. The app will start fresh with default settings, ensuring effortless performance. Anyway, go through the following guide to reinstall your messaging app without hassle:

For Android

1. Uninstall WhatsApp

To initiate, press the app icon to choose the "Uninstall" option and tap "OK" to confirm it.



2. Reinstall WhatsApp

Following that, access the app on the "Play Store" by searching for it and pressing the "Install" button.

For iPhone

1. Delete WhatsApp

You need to long-tap the app icon to select the "Remove App" option. Afterward, opt for the "Delete App" choice and then press "Delete" on the following prompt.



2. Reinstall WhatsApp

Subsequently, navigate to the "App Store" to access the app and press the "Install" icon.

Part 3. Advanced Troubleshooting (For Persistent Issues)

In case notifications still fail after all fixes, advanced assistance becomes necessary. Many times, hidden system conflicts or account-level issues stop alerts from appearing correctly. In such situations, reinstalling isn't enough, and direct help is required. At this particular time, you need to contact the WhatsApp Support team for further solutions.

Plus, make sure to mention that WhatsApp is not showing notifications even after applying basic fixes. Also, include your phone model, OS version, and recent changes for faster response. The support team will analyze your account and provide personalized solutions.

Pro Tip: Track Someone's WhatsApp Online Activity with Tracover

Sometimes, people miss essential updates because there's no notification from WhatsApp even when messages arrive. This may result from the inability to tell who is active or when they last went online. With this, a good tracker is helpful in letting you know the activity of others in WhatsApp. That's where the Tracover app becomes extremely useful for users who need accurate insights. It provides instant tracking when someone goes online or offline.

During tracking, the app shows timestamps for online and offline sessions, along with precise login and logout details. Users can analyze daily online duration automatically without checking the app. Plus, it even creates visual charts that display daily or weekly activity trends clearly. The app sends instant alerts whenever your monitored contact becomes active or inactive. Moreover, you can track multiple WhatsApp contacts at once with consistent accuracy.

Guide to Track WhatsApp Online Activities with Tracover

To use this dedicated app, adhere to the following guide and monitor your preferred contact:

1. Choose the Person You Want to Monitor

Start by tapping "Add Contacts" on the home screen to view all saved contacts inside the app. Subsequently, find the contact you want to track and hit the "Add" button next to their name.



2. Confirm Details to Begin Monitoring

Check the person's name and their country code and press "Start Tracking" to activate tracking. Next, select "Link WhatsApp" and scan the given QR code to connect your account with Tracover.



3. Review WhatsApp Activity Updates Instantly

Once tracking begins, go to the contact's profile and open the "Activity" tab to see accurate online/offline records.

Conclusion

In summary, it can interrupt communication when WhatsApp notifications are not showing. Yet, following these discussed solutions helps restore alerts and keep your chats running again. In addition, if the issue still continues after opting for basic solutions, connect to the WhatsApp support team. However, if you want to stay informed about others' activity in real time, Tracover app is the perfect tool. It lets users track online presence accurately and effortlessly.