In today’s world, instant messaging is essential for both daily communication and professional tasks. When Telegram or Viber stops delivering messages, it can quickly become a major inconvenience. The reasons behind this issue can range from poor internet connection to app settings or even system-level conflicts.
As noted by the editors of the Baltimore Chronicle, identifying the core cause is key to solving the problem efficiently and preventing it in the future.
Common Reasons Why Telegram or Viber Messages Don’t Arrive
These issues may stem from either device settings or app functionality. Start with basic checks before moving to more technical solutions.
Internet Connection Issues
Telegram and Viber rely entirely on an internet connection. If your connection is unstable or down:
- Messages may not be sent or received
- Chats may stop syncing
- The app may show “Connecting…” or “No connection”
How to check:
- Test internet access in a browser or other apps
- Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data
- Enable Airplane mode for 10 seconds, then disable it
Notifications Turned Off in App or Device Settings
One of the most common reasons is that notifications are disabled either in the messenger’s settings or on the phone itself.
Where to look:
- In Telegram: Settings → Notifications and Sounds
- In Viber: More → Settings → Notifications
Also check system-level settings:
- Android: Settings → Apps → Telegram/Viber → Notifications
- iPhone: Settings → Notifications → Telegram/Viber
Make sure:
- Notifications are enabled
- Sound and banners are turned on
- Background app refresh is allowed
Battery Saver or Power Management Interference
Modern smartphones include battery optimization tools that may limit background activity, which directly affects message delivery.
Possible causes:
- “Battery Saver” or “Ultra Power Saving” mode enabled
- App put to “sleep” by the system
- Background data restrictions
What to do:
- Disable power-saving modes
- Whitelist Telegram and Viber from battery optimization
- Ensure the apps are not being restricted in the background
App-Related Failures and Server Issues
Sometimes, the problem lies not with your device, but with the app or its servers.
Server Outages
Telegram and Viber may experience outages during maintenance or due to cyberattacks.
Signs of server problems:
- Messages won’t send to anyone
- Telegram fails to refresh chats
- Viber shows “Server unavailable” or similar
What you can do:
- Check downdetector.com for reports
- Look for updates from Telegram or Viber on Twitter (X)
- Wait a few hours for the issue to resolve
Outdated App Version
Older versions of Telegram or Viber may not work correctly with the latest OS updates or server configurations.
How to resolve:
- Open the Play Store or App Store
- Update Telegram and Viber to the latest version
- Restart your phone after updating
Issues Related to Cache and Storage
If your phone is running low on memory or has accumulated too many temporary files, apps like Telegram and Viber may malfunction.
Clearing App Cache
On Android:
- Settings → Apps → Telegram/Viber
- Storage → Clear cache
On iPhone: uninstall and reinstall the app, or use Telegram’s built-in cache clearing function.
Other tips:
- Delete unused files and media
- Check available storage
- Reboot the device
Comparison of Common Issues by Platform
| Issue | Android | iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| Notifications disabled | Yes | Yes |
| Internet connection issues | Yes | Yes |
| Background activity restrictions | Common | Rare |
| Outdated app version | Yes | Yes |
| Power saving interference | Yes | Limited |
| Server issues | Yes | Yes |
Other Potential Causes
Antivirus or VPN Conflicts
Sometimes third-party apps interfere with Telegram or Viber’s network access.
What you can try:
- Disable VPN and test message delivery
- Turn off antivirus or firewall temporarily
Account Logout or Restrictions
It’s possible the app logged you out or your account was temporarily restricted.
How to tell:
- Telegram doesn’t load chats
- Viber asks for reactivation
Steps to take:
- Make sure you’re logged in
- Contact Telegram or Viber support if your account appears blocked
How to Prevent Messaging Problems in the Future
To avoid running into the same issue again, follow these basic practices:
- Keep your apps updated
- Regularly check notification settings
- Maintain a stable internet connection
- Add Telegram/Viber to power-saving exception lists
- Avoid installing unknown apps that may interfere
What to Do If Nothing Helps
If you’ve tried everything above and messages still aren’t arriving:
- Delete and reinstall the app
- Reset app data (back up your account first)
- Test the account on another device
- Contact Telegram or Viber technical support
Earlier we wrote that Elon Musk’s Grok AI now available on Telegram.