How to Fix Videos Won’t Play or Work on an iPhone

It is convenient to browse through online videos on our iPhones instead of sitting in front of our computer or smart TV. Watching videos on mobile devices gives us the leverage of bringing our streaming experience anywhere we go. And, the Apple mobile device is a perfect companion for solid binge-watching sessions. Despite the smaller screen size, iPhones make it easier for us to catch up with our TV series episodes and movies.

However, some users complained that videos on their iPhones are not playing. If this happens to you, it can be frustrating, especially if you look forward to the content you are about to watch on your iOS device.

How to Turn Off & Stop Autoplay Videos on Facebook App
Photo credit by Jeremy Bezanger on Unsplash

TODAY’S BEST DEALS: Check out these offers on new iPhone models at Amazon & Walmart!

Why Are Videos Not Playing or Working on iPhone?

There may be various reasons why your videos won’t work or play on your iPhone. A common reason is a poor Internet network connection, may it be mobile data or WiFi. In some cases, there is something wrong with the data cache or the streaming app where you stream your videos. An issue with the app server may also contribute to the video playback problem on iOS devices.

How to Troubleshoot & Fix Videos Won’t Play on iPhone/iOS Mobile Devices

While there are different causes of the video playback error on your iPhone, there are also solutions you can try to fix and resolve the problem. Let us check out the solutions and workarounds we have listed below.

Restart your iPhone

  • Exit all running apps in the background and power off your iPhone.
  • You can also unplug your router and modem to refresh your Internet connection.
  • Wait for at least 3 minutes before you plug them back in and power on your iPhone.
  • Now, relaunch the video you want to watch.

Check your Network Connection

Your network may not have a reliable signal. Do a speed test and check if you have a good Internet connection or not. If not, switch to a different network or use your mobile data if using WiFi.

Use a Different Video Player

How-to-Download-and-Install-the-VLC-App-on-Amazon-Fire-TV-or-Firestick-Device
Image by VideoLAN

You can download the video and use a video player like VLC to play your video. Your iPhone also allows you to watch videos via the Files app. Save the video in the Files app and tap the Play button.

Check your iPhone Storage

Perhaps your iPhone is running out of storage space, hence the reason why you are unable to play any video.

  • Launch the Settings menu.
  • Go to General.
  • Choose iPhone Storage.
  • You will see the apps and the storage size they used up. That way, you can delete some files, images, or videos to free up storage space.

Install Available Updates on your iPhone

  • Go to the Settings menu of your iPhone.
  • Select General.
  • Choose Software Update.
  • Download and install available updates on your iPhone.
  • Restart your iPhone.

Reinstall the Problematic App

If you are watching your videos via an app, you can uninstall it first. Then, navigate to the App Store and reinstall a new version of the app. Reboot your iPhone.

What did you do to troubleshoot the video playback error on your iPhone? You can share your answers in the comment section below.

DON’T MISS: Limited-time deals on the latest iPhone series at Amazon & Walmart!

Eddie Mendoza
Eddie Mendoza
With a Bachelor’s degree in IT, Eddie has a natural knack for troubleshooting gadget issues. With more than 10 years of blogging experience under his belt, writing and publishing articles for streaming and related services is one of his main act. When not on his computer, you can find him tinkering his guitars.

Comments

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Some posts may contain affiliate links. When you buy something through our links, we may earn a small amount at no additional cost to you.

SIMILAR ARTICLES

Can you Find Lost, Offline/Dead or AirPods Connected to Another Phone?

AirPods have become an essential accessory for many, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with user convenience. However, the fear of misplacing or losing these wireless earbuds...

Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Apple TV 4K: Which One is Better for Streaming

So you're trying to pick between the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Apple TV 4K for streaming. I feel you - it's a tricky choice!...

Most Popular

Recent Articles