WhatsApp says Failed to send SMS to the specified number. What should I do - briefly?
If you encounter the message "Failed to send SMS to the specified number" on WhatsApp, first ensure that your phone number is verified and up-to-date in the app's settings. Additionally, check if your device has a stable internet connection or mobile data plan active, as these are essential for sending messages.
WhatsApp says Failed to send SMS to the specified number. What should I do - in detail?
If you're encountering an error message from WhatsApp that states "Failed to send SMS to the specified number," there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do:
Check Your Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is crucial for sending messages via WhatsApp. Ensure that your device is connected to Wi-Fi or has strong mobile data coverage. You can try switching between different networks to see if the problem persists.
Verify the Phone Number
Double-check the phone number you are trying to send the message to. Make sure there are no typos and that the number is formatted correctly according to international standards (e.g., +1 for the United States).
Ensure WhatsApp Is Up-to-Date
An outdated version of WhatsApp might cause issues with sending messages. Go to your app store, search for WhatsApp, and check if there are any updates available. If there is, install the update and try sending the message again.
Restart Your Device
Sometimes, simply restarting your device can resolve temporary glitches. Turn off your phone, wait for a few seconds, and then turn it back on before attempting to send the message again.
Clear App Cache (Android Only)
If you are using an Android device, clearing the cache of WhatsApp might help. Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp.
- Tap on Storage & Cache.
- Select “Clear Cache” and confirm your action.
Check for Blocked Numbers
Ensure that the number you are trying to send a message to is not blocked on your device or through WhatsApp settings. You can check this in the block list settings of your phone.
Reinstall WhatsApp
If none of the above steps work, consider uninstalling and then reinstalling WhatsApp:
- Uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
- Restart your device.
- Reinstall WhatsApp from the app store.
- Log back into your account and try sending the message again.
Verify SMS Permissions (Android Only)
On some Android devices, WhatsApp requires specific permissions to send SMS messages. Ensure that WhatsApp has been granted these permissions:
- Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp.
- Tap on Permissions.
- Make sure that the SMS permission is enabled.
Contact Support
If you have tried all of the above steps and are still unable to send the message, it may be a more complex issue that requires assistance from WhatsApp support. You can reach out to them through their official website or within the app under Settings > Help > Contact Us.
By following these detailed troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the "Failed to send SMS to the specified number" error and successfully send your message on WhatsApp.