Fix: Unable to load video on iPhone

Unable to load video error on iPhone can be frustrating, especially when watching your favourite content. Fortunately, there are several fixes that you can try to resolve this error easily.

In this article, we’ll provide a few such fixes and explain the reasons behind such errors.

Reasons why you are unable to load video on iPhone

Here are some common reasons why videos may be unable to load on an iPhone:

Poor network connection: A weak or unstable WiFi or cellular network can prevent videos from loading properly.
Outdated iOS or app: If you are using an outdated version of iOS or the app, you may experience problems in loading videos.
App cache or data corruption: Accumulated cache or corrupted data within the video playback app can interfere with the loading process.
Insufficient storage space: If your iPhone’s storage is full or nearing capacity, it can impact the device’s performance, including video playback.
VPN issues: If you are using a VPN or proxy on your iPhone, it can sometimes interfere with video loading.

Also read: Unable to connect to Google chat: 6 Fixes

Unable to load video on iPhone: Possible fixes

Now that we have understood why you are unable to load videos on your iPhone, here are some fixes for the problem:

Restart your iPhone

Sometimes, the easiest solutions are the best ones. In this case, you can start by restarting your iPhone. When you restart your device, it clears the RAM and fixes minor bugs.

Turn on and then turn off airplane mode on iPhone

If you still have problems loading videos on an iPhone, turn on the airplane mode for about a minute or so. After that, turn it back on. Now, try to load the videos again and it should work this time.

Switch to a WiFi

Many times, the cellular internet doesn’t work as intended. This can be due to many reasons like heavy traffic during peak hours or infrastructure repair.

If you are unable to load videos while using the cellular connection, you should toggle to a WiFi connection which is considered to be more stable and fast.

Reset the network settings

Resettings your iPhone’s network settings can help resolve wireless charging issues caused by connectivity problems. To reset the network settings, follow the steps mentioned below.

Go to Settings and tap on General
Scroll down and tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone
Tap on Reset Network Settings

Fix your internet

Sometimes there are server outages or scheduled server maintenance that causes the videos to not load on iPhone:

But before that, make sure that there is no network issue at your end. For that, there are certain things that you must first take care of:

First, make sure that there isn’t any internet outage in your area. You can ask your Internet Service Provider for the information or you can visit their website.
If there is no outage, then it is time to check the hardware to make sure that they are not damaged. Check all the hardware associated with the internet connection. That includes your router, modem, power cable, and the main power source, among others. Ensure that all the hardware is undamaged and working properly. If you notice any damage, change it asap.
If the hardware is fine, then it is time to check the connections. Make sure that the cables are secured firmly in the proper ports.
Sometimes, there is too much distance between the WiFi and the receiving device. Make sure that the distance is less. Or, you can directly connect the internet to your computer as it provides a more stable speed compared to WiFi.
Also, remove any other electronic appliances that might interfere with the WiFi signals. While you are at it, place the WiFi on a raised platform so that the devices catch signals seamlessly.
If there are many devices connected to your network, remove them before playing games on the internet as the devices share the limited bandwidth of the plan. You can also think of upgrading your existing internet plan.

Update your iPhone

Make sure that the iPhone’s OS is up-to-date. If you haven’t updated your iPhone in a while, then go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for any available updates.

Update the app

If there is a particular app that cannot play videos, make sure to update the app too. Visit the App Store and then update the application.

If updating the application didn’t work, then try reinstalling the app.

Offload the app

To offload an app and clear its cache, go to Settings > General > iPhone > Offload App.

Perform a factory reset

As a last resort, you can try to perform a factory reset on your iPhone. This will erase all the data and settings on your iPhone, so be sure to make a backup of all the important files. To factory reset your iPhone, follow the steps mentioned below.