11 Solutions to Fix Instagram Voice Messages Not Playing or Sending

ByJim Miller

Are you experiencing issues with playing or sending voice messages on Instagram? Don't worry, there are several reasons why this could be happening, such as app permissions, cache data, or app bugs. Fortunately, you don't have to switch to another platform just yet. This guide provides 11 fixes that should help you with Instagram sound problems and get Instagram voice messages up and running on your Android or iPhone.

1. Check the Volume Level and Turn Off Bluetooth

First things first, make sure to check the volume level on your phone. It may seem obvious, but sometimes the volume is low or muted, making it appear as if Instagram voice messages are not playing. Increase the volume by pressing the Volume Up button on the side of your phone. Additionally, ensure that no Bluetooth audio devices are connected to your phone.

2. Allow Instagram to Use the Microphone

Next, you need to grant Instagram permission to use your phone's microphone. Without this permission, the app won't be able to record your voice messages.

Android

  • Tap and hold the Instagram app icon, then tap the info icon from the menu that appears.
  • Go to Permissions.
  • Tap on Microphone and select Allow only while using the app from the menu.

iPhone

  • Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • Scroll down and tap on Instagram.
  • Enable the Microphone toggle.

3. Check Microphone Access From Privacy Settings (Android)

If you have Android 12 or above, you can control microphone permissions for all apps from the Privacy menu. If you've accidentally disabled microphone access, apps like Instagram won't be able to use your microphone even with the necessary permissions. Here's what you can do to fix it:

  • Open the Settings app on your phone and go to Privacy.
  • Enable the switch next to Microphone access under Controls and alerts.

4. Enable Mobile Data for Instagram (iPhone)

On an iPhone, you can individually control mobile data access for each app. If you have disabled mobile data for the Instagram app, you won't be able to record or play voice messages. To fix this:

  • Open the Settings app and scroll down to tap on Instagram.
  • Enable the toggle next to Mobile Data.

5. Close and Reopen the App

Sometimes, temporary app glitches can cause issues with playing or recording voice messages on Instagram. In such cases, simply force-close the app and restart it on your phone.

  • On Android, long-press on the Instagram app icon, tap the info icon, and select Force stop.
  • On iPhone, swipe upwards from the bottom of the screen (or double-tap the Home Screen button) to bring up the app switcher. Locate the Instagram app card and swipe upwards to close it.

6. Sign Out and Sign In

If restarting the app doesn't solve the problem, try signing out of your account and signing back in. This will reconnect your account to the server and resolve any account-specific issues.

  • Open Instagram and go to the profile tab.
  • Tap the hamburger icon (three horizontal bars) and select Settings and privacy.
  • Scroll down and tap Log out [account name].
  • Reopen the Instagram app, sign in to your account, and check if voice messages are working.

logout

7. Disable Instagram's Data Saver Feature

Instagram has a data saver feature that reduces the app's data consumption. However, this feature can sometimes interfere with the app's functionality, including voice messages. It's best to disable it if you're having trouble playing or sending voice messages on Instagram.

  • Open Instagram and go to the profile tab.
  • Tap the menu icon in the top-right corner and select Settings and privacy.
  • Tap Data usage and media quality, then disable the Data Saver toggle.

data saver

8. Clear Instagram Cache (Android)

Instagram, like many other apps, collects cache files to improve loading times and performance. However, if the cache data becomes corrupt, the app may not function properly. Clearing Instagram's cache can help resolve this issue.

  • Long-press on the Instagram app icon and tap the info icon.
  • Go to Storage and tap Clear cache.

9. Check Instagram Server Status

Instagram, like any other service, experiences occasional outages. If Instagram's servers are down, you may encounter difficulties using certain features, including voice messages. You can check websites like Downdetector to see if others are reporting similar issues. If the servers are down, you'll have to wait for Instagram to fix the problem.

10. Update the Instagram App

Keeping your apps updated to the latest versions is always a good practice. If a bug is causing Instagram voice messages to not play or send, updating the app should resolve the issue. Head to the Play Store or App Store, find the Instagram app, and update it. Once updated, check if the issue persists.

11. Switch to Instagram Lite or Instagram Web

If none of the above solutions work for you, you can try switching to Instagram Lite. It is a lightweight version of the Instagram app that includes essential features, including voice messages. However, Instagram Lite is only available for Android users. If you're using an iPhone, you can use Instagram Web to listen to existing voice messages, but you won't be able to record and send voice messages.

In conclusion, voice messages can be a convenient way to communicate. You can even learn how to download Instagram voice messages! If you're experiencing difficulties with playing or sending voice messages, try these solutions to get them working again.