Why Does My Tablet Freeze During Video Calls Simple Solutions

Video calls have become a cornerstone of modern communication—whether for work, education, or staying in touch with loved ones. But nothing disrupts the flow like a frozen screen mid-conversation. If your tablet suddenly stops responding during a Zoom, Google Meet, or FaceTime session, you're not alone. The good news is that most freezing issues stem from preventable causes and can be resolved with straightforward fixes. Understanding the root problems—and applying targeted solutions—can restore smooth performance and eliminate frustrating interruptions.

Common Causes of Tablet Freezing During Video Calls

Tablet freezing isn’t random; it’s typically a symptom of underlying system strain. Video calling apps are resource-intensive, requiring real-time processing of audio, video, and data transmission. When your device struggles to keep up, it may freeze, lag, or crash entirely. The most frequent culprits include:

• Inadequate RAM or processor power: Older or budget tablets may lack the hardware needed for seamless video streaming.
• Background apps consuming resources: Multiple running apps compete for memory and CPU, leaving little for your call.
• Poor internet connection: Low bandwidth or unstable Wi-Fi forces the app to buffer, increasing load on the system.
• Outdated software: Apps or operating systems with unresolved bugs can cause crashes.
• Overheating: Extended use, especially under direct sunlight or poor ventilation, leads to thermal throttling.
• Storage overload: When internal storage is nearly full, system performance degrades significantly.

Each of these factors can act alone or in combination. Pinpointing which applies to your situation is the first step toward resolution.

Tip: Close unused tabs and apps before starting a video call to free up memory and reduce system load.

Step-by-Step Guide to Prevent Freezing

Resolving freezing issues doesn’t require technical expertise. Follow this practical sequence to stabilize your tablet’s performance during video calls:

1. Restart your tablet: A simple reboot clears temporary files, resets network settings, and closes hidden processes. Do this daily if you rely heavily on video calls.
2. Close background apps: Swipe away all non-essential apps from the recent apps menu. This reduces RAM usage and prevents interference.
3. Check your internet speed: Use a speed test app or website. For HD video calls, aim for at least 3 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload. If speeds are low, move closer to the router or switch to Ethernet via an adapter.
4. Lower video quality: In your video call app settings, disable HD video or turn off your camera when not needed. This reduces processing demands.
5. Update your OS and apps: Go to Settings > System > Software Update (Android) or General > Software Update (iOS). Also, update your calling apps through the app store.
6. Clear cache for video apps: On Android, go to Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage > Clear Cache. On iOS, offload and reinstall the app to clear cached data.
7. Ensure adequate storage space: Delete old photos, downloads, or unused apps. Aim to keep at least 15–20% of your storage free.
8. Keep your tablet cool: Avoid prolonged use in hot environments. Remove thick cases during long calls to improve heat dissipation.

Implementing even a few of these steps can dramatically improve stability. For best results, apply them proactively before your next meeting.

Do’s and Don’ts: Tablet Performance Best Practices

Do’s	Don’ts
Use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data when possible	Run multiple video apps simultaneously
Place your tablet on a flat, ventilated surface	Leave your tablet in direct sunlight during calls
Turn off Bluetooth and GPS when not in use	Ignore software update notifications
Use a wired headset to reduce wireless load	Store large files (videos, apps) without regular cleanup
Restart your tablet weekly as maintenance	Assume freezing is inevitable with older devices

This comparison highlights habits that either support or sabotage your tablet’s ability to handle video calls. Consistently following the “Do’s” can extend your device’s usability by years.

Real Example: How Sarah Fixed Her Freezing Tablet

Sarah, a remote teacher using a three-year-old Android tablet for daily online classes, experienced frequent freezing during her sessions. Students would disconnect, and she often had to restart mid-lesson. Frustrated, she reached out to a tech-savvy colleague who walked her through a diagnostic process.

The issue wasn’t her internet—it was strong and stable. Instead, her tablet had over 90% storage used, five messaging apps running in the background, and outdated software. She followed a simple plan: uninstalled unused apps, cleared cache for Zoom and Chrome, updated her OS, and began restarting her tablet each morning.

Within two days, her freezing stopped completely. “I didn’t realize how much clutter was slowing me down,” she said. “Now my tablet feels like new again.” Sarah’s experience shows that performance issues are often solvable without costly upgrades.

“Most tablet freezing during video calls is due to software congestion, not hardware failure. A few minutes of maintenance can restore smooth operation.” — Dr. Raj Mehta, Mobile Systems Analyst at TechInsight Labs

Essential Checklist for Smooth Video Calls

Before every important video call, run through this checklist to ensure optimal performance:

• ✅ Restart the tablet
• ✅ Close all background apps
• ✅ Confirm Wi-Fi signal strength (at least 3 bars)
• ✅ Disable HD video in app settings
• ✅ Ensure battery is above 30% (low power mode can throttle performance)
• ✅ Place tablet on a cool, flat surface
• ✅ Test audio and video in advance
• ✅ Verify app and OS are up to date

Using this checklist consistently reduces the risk of technical disruptions. Think of it as digital hygiene—small actions that prevent major problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a virus cause my tablet to freeze during video calls?

While rare, malware can degrade performance by running hidden processes. Only install apps from official stores (Google Play or Apple App Store), avoid suspicious links, and use built-in security features. If you suspect infection, perform a factory reset after backing up data.

Will clearing app data delete my account information?

Clearing cache won’t affect login details. However, clearing app *data* will log you out and erase preferences. Always choose “Clear Cache” unless you’re troubleshooting a specific bug and don’t mind reconfiguring settings.

Is it better to use a phone or tablet for video calls?

Tablets generally offer larger screens and better speakers, making them ideal for extended calls. However, both devices perform similarly if they have comparable specs and connectivity. Prioritize device condition and network quality over form factor.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Tablet’s Performance

Your tablet doesn’t have to freeze during video calls. Most issues stem from manageable factors like cluttered storage, outdated software, or overheating—all of which respond well to simple interventions. By understanding the causes and applying consistent maintenance, you can transform a glitchy device into a reliable communication tool.

Start today: restart your tablet, close unnecessary apps, and check for updates. These small steps build a foundation for smoother, more professional video interactions. Don’t wait for the next freeze-up to take action. A few minutes of prevention now can save you from embarrassment and frustration later.

💬 Have a tip that helped fix your tablet’s freezing? Share it in the comments below and help others stay connected without interruption!