5 Ways to Fix WhatsApp Not Downloading PDFs on Phone
Parth Shah is an evergreen freelance writer covering how-tos, app guides, comparisons, listicles, and troubleshooting guides on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and smart TV platforms. He has over five years of experience and has covered 1,500+ articles on GuidingTech and Android Police. In his free time, you will see him binge-watching Netflix shows, reading books, and traveling.
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Basic Fixes
Fix 1: Enable Media Auto-Download
If WhatsApp isn’t downloading PDFs automatically and you have to manually do it in a chat, enable theMedia auto-downloadfeature under WhatsApp settings to automate it.
Note:Enabling media auto-download doesn’t work on existing PDF files. You may need to ask the person to send the file again after turning on the feature.
Step 1:Tap the verticalthree-dot menuat the top right of WhatsApp and selectSettings.
Step 2:SelectStorage and data, locate the Media auto-download section, and tapWhen using mobile data.
Step 3:MarkPhotos, Audio, Videos,andDocumentsand tapOK. Repeat the same forWhen connected on Wi-Fi, andWhen roamingto automatically download the received media (including PDFs).
Caution:Enabling media auto-download for Mobile data and Roaming will consume more mobile data.
Fix 2: Enable Background App Refresh (iOS)
If PDF downloading in WhatsApp halts as soon as you close the app on your iPhone, missing background activity permissions are the underlying culprit. EnableBackground App Refreshfor WhatsApp to resolve it.
Open iPhone settings, scroll to the bottom, and selectWhatsApp. Toggle onBackground App Refresh.
Fix 3: Turn on Unrestricted Data for WhatsApp (Android)
An active battery saver mode on your Android phone can prevent WhatsApp from downloading PDFs to limit data consumption. To fix it, turn on Unrestricted Data usage for WhatsApp.
Long-tap the WhatsApp icon to openApp info, selectMobile data and Wi-Fi, and enableUnrestricted data usage.
Fix 4: Clear the WhatsApp Cache (Android)
A corrupt WhatsApp app cache can affect its basic services, such assending a messageor downloading a media attachment (e.g., photo, video, or PDF). Clearing it manually from Android settings should restore its normal functioning.
Open WhatsApp app info, tapStorage and cache, and selectClear cache.
Fix 5: Reset Network Settings
Lastly, incorrect network settings can prevent you from downloading PDFs in WhatsApp. Reset them manually under your device settings.
On Android
Step 1:Open the Settings app, selectSystem, and tapReset options.
Step 2:SelectReset Wi-Fi, mobile network & Bluetooth, and tapReset settingsto confirm.
On iOS
Step 1:SelectGeneralunder iPhone settings and tapTransfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 2:TapResetand selectReset Network Settings. When prompted, enter your device passcode to confirm it.
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Last updated on 12 July, 2024
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