Why Is My Tablet Freezing During Video Calls Quick Performance Fixes

Video calls have become a cornerstone of modern communication—whether for work, education, or staying in touch with loved ones. When your tablet freezes mid-call, it’s more than frustrating; it can disrupt important conversations, damage professional credibility, or cause you to miss critical moments. The good news is that most freezing issues are fixable with targeted troubleshooting. Understanding the root causes and applying practical solutions can restore smooth performance quickly.

Freezing typically stems from a combination of hardware limitations, software inefficiencies, network instability, or resource overload. Unlike desktops or laptops, tablets often operate with constrained memory and processing power, making them more vulnerable to performance hiccups under demanding tasks like real-time video streaming. But with the right adjustments, even older or budget-friendly devices can handle video conferencing reliably.

Common Causes of Tablet Freezing During Video Calls

Before diving into fixes, it's essential to identify what’s triggering the freeze. Most issues fall into one of five categories:

• Insufficient RAM or CPU power: Tablets with limited processing resources struggle when running multiple apps simultaneously, especially those requiring high bandwidth like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams.
• Poor internet connectivity: Unstable Wi-Fi or weak signal strength leads to buffering, lag, and eventual freezing as the device fails to maintain data flow.
• Outdated operating system or app versions: Older software may lack optimizations for current video codecs or security patches that improve stability.
• Background app interference: Apps running in the background consume memory and battery, reducing available resources for your video call.
• Overheating: Prolonged use, direct sunlight, or poor ventilation can cause thermal throttling, slowing down the processor to prevent damage.

These factors don’t always act alone. A slightly outdated app combined with a spotty connection can be enough to push a borderline-performing tablet over the edge.

Tip: Close all non-essential apps before starting a video call to free up RAM and reduce processing load.

Step-by-Step Guide to Immediate Performance Fixes

If your tablet freezes during a call, follow this sequence to diagnose and resolve the issue quickly—many fixes take less than two minutes.

1. End the call and restart the app: Force-close the video conferencing app and relaunch it. This clears temporary glitches and resets memory allocation.
2. Reboot the tablet: A full restart clears cached data, stops rogue processes, and refreshes network settings.
3. Switch to Wi-Fi if on cellular data: Cellular networks are often less stable than Wi-Fi, especially during peak hours. Connect to a 5GHz band if available for lower latency.
4. Reduce video quality: In app settings, lower resolution to 720p or disable HD video. Some apps allow you to turn off your camera entirely while keeping audio active.
5. Disable background apps: Go to Settings > Apps > Running and close unnecessary services like social media sync, email fetchers, or cloud backups.
6. Check for updates: Ensure both the OS and the video app are up to date. Developers frequently release patches for known performance bugs.
7. Cool the device: If the tablet feels warm, let it rest for 5–10 minutes away from direct light. Avoid using cases that trap heat.

Implementing these steps in order increases the likelihood of restoring functionality without losing future call reliability.

Do’s and Don’ts for Stable Video Calling

Do’s	Don’ts
Use a strong, stable Wi-Fi connection (preferably 5GHz)	Run multiple video or streaming apps in the background
Keep your tablet charged above 30% during long calls	Use Bluetooth headphones with poor signal compatibility
Close unused tabs and apps before joining a meeting	Ignore OS or app update notifications
Position the tablet near the router to minimize interference	Place the device in direct sunlight or on warm surfaces
Use lightweight alternatives like phone calls or chat if video isn’t essential	Force the app to stay open after repeated crashes

This table highlights common oversights that degrade performance. Simple behavioral changes can significantly extend usability, especially on older models.

Real-World Example: Resolving Recurring Freezes in a Remote Learning Setup

Sarah, a middle school teacher conducting daily online classes from her three-year-old Android tablet, began experiencing frequent freezes during live lessons. Students would lose audio and video, and she’d have to reconnect repeatedly, disrupting instruction.

She first assumed the issue was her internet, but speed tests showed consistent 25 Mbps download speeds—more than enough for standard video calls. After reviewing her setup, she discovered several contributing factors: her tablet had 2GB of RAM, was running an outdated version of Google Meet, and had six apps syncing in the background, including Instagram, Gmail, and Dropbox.

Following the step-by-step guide, Sarah updated her OS and the Meet app, disabled auto-sync for non-essential accounts, and started closing all apps before class. She also moved her tablet closer to the router and removed its thick silicone case during sessions to prevent overheating.

The result? No freezes over the next two weeks. Her students reported clearer audio and smoother interaction. The fix didn’t require new hardware—just smarter optimization of existing resources.

“Many users assume their device is ‘too old’ when in reality, it’s misconfigured. A few strategic tweaks can breathe new life into aging tablets.” — Dr. Rajiv Mehta, Mobile Systems Engineer at NetPerformance Labs

Long-Term Optimization Checklist

To prevent future freezing, adopt these habits as part of your regular tablet maintenance routine:

• ✅ Update your operating system and all apps monthly
• ✅ Clear cache for video calling apps every two weeks
• ✅ Disable automatic background sync for non-critical apps
• ✅ Use a dedicated user profile or “work mode” with minimal distractions
• ✅ Monitor storage space—keep at least 15% free for optimal performance
• ✅ Restart your tablet at least once a week
• ✅ Test Wi-Fi signal strength in your primary usage area monthly
• ✅ Consider switching to a wired Ethernet adapter via USB-C if Wi-Fi remains unstable

This checklist ensures sustained performance. Think of it as digital hygiene—small, consistent actions that compound into major reliability gains over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my tablet freeze only during video calls and not other tasks?

Video calls are among the most resource-intensive activities for a tablet. They require simultaneous use of the camera, microphone, speaker, screen, network interface, and processor to encode/decode video streams in real time. This multi-system demand can overwhelm older or low-end devices that handle simpler tasks like browsing or reading just fine.

Can clearing app cache really help with freezing?

Yes. Over time, apps accumulate temporary files that can corrupt or bloat, leading to sluggish behavior. Clearing the cache removes these files without deleting your login info or settings. For video apps, this often resolves playback stutters and unexpected crashes. Do this through Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage > Clear Cache.

Is it better to use a smartphone instead of a tablet for video calls?

Not necessarily. While smartphones are more portable, tablets usually have larger batteries, bigger screens, and better speakers—advantages for extended calls. However, if your tablet has less than 3GB of RAM or an older processor (e.g., pre-2020 entry-level chip), a newer smartphone might indeed perform better due to more recent hardware and efficient thermal design.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Tablet Longevity

Beyond immediate fixes, consider long-term strategies to future-proof your device:

• Limit multitasking: Avoid splitting your attention across multiple video panels, browsers, and documents during calls. Focus on one primary task.
• Use external accessories: A clip-on webcam or Bluetooth microphone reduces the load on built-in components and improves call quality.
• Enable battery saver mode: While it may slightly limit performance, it prevents aggressive background activity that competes for resources.
• Factory reset periodically: Every 6–12 months, back up your data and perform a clean reset. This eliminates deep-seated software clutter that accumulates over time.

Modern tablets are capable machines, but they weren’t designed for endless, uninterrupted use. Treating them with intentional care extends their functional lifespan far beyond typical expectations.

Tip: Schedule a “tablet tune-up” Sunday night ritual: check for updates, clear caches, and review upcoming week’s call needs.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Digital Experience

Your tablet doesn’t need to be replaced just because it struggles with video calls. More often than not, freezing is a solvable symptom of imbalance—not obsolescence. By understanding the interplay between hardware, software, and network conditions, you gain the power to optimize performance with precision.

The fixes outlined here are immediate, practical, and rooted in real-world testing. Whether you’re teaching a class, attending a job interview, or catching up with family, a stable connection and responsive device make all the difference. Start with one change today—close background apps, move closer to your router, or update your software—and build from there.

💬 Have a tip that solved your tablet’s freezing issue? Share your experience in the comments and help others stay connected smoothly.