Fix: Android 14 Video Not Working

Android 14 preview has been out for several months now, and the stable release is also very near. While the Android 14 update is surely interesting and exciting, there are some issues with this update. Users are encountering a puzzling issue: videos are not working.

This issue has piqued the interest of Android users on Reddit, a popular online forum for the platform’s fans. It appears that some users have had no trouble playing videos with this update, while others have run into difficulties.

Android 14 Now Playing is broken
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If you are also facing a similar issue, then you are in the right place. In this article, we will take a look at the reasons why this issue could be happening and help you fix the issue. So, without any further ado, let’s jump straight into it.

Reasons Why Android 14 Video Is Not Working

There are several reasons why your Android 14 video might not be working as expected. As you might already have understood, this is a software-related issue that’s preventing the video from playing properly. Although the number of reasons behind the issue are many, here are some of the most common ones:

1. Internet Connection Issues: Unstable or slow internet can disrupt video playback.
2. Storage Space: Insufficient storage space on the device can affect video playback.
3. Server Issues: Problems with streaming service servers can hinder video playback.
4. Video Format and Encoding: Incompatibility with video formats or codecs can cause issues.
5. Media Player Compatibility: The default media player may struggle with certain formats.
6. Network Settings: Misconfigured network settings can interfere with video streaming.
7. Cache and Data: Accumulated cache and data in streaming apps can cause playback problems.
8. SD Card Issues: Problems with the SD card can disrupt video playback.
9. App Updates: Outdated streaming apps may not be compatible with newer video formats.

22 Ways to Fix Android 14 Video Not Working Issue

Now that you are aware of the reasons behind the Android 14 video not working issue, we can proceed further with the troubleshooting steps. We have a number of solutions or fixes to try. This is an extensive guide, so you should be able to find the right solution for you.

Fix 1: Check the Internet Connection

First and foremost, check your internet connection speed and stability first. Uninterrupted streaming relies on having a fast and stable internet connection. Having a steady internet connection is essential for stress-free playback, and uninterrupted internet service is just as crucial for streaming videos online.

Get your wireless network or mobile data service up and running smoothly first. To put it another way, it’s like clearing the route to your internet connection so that there are no delays in your video streaming.

If there is an issue with your Wi-Fi router, you can try rebooting it. This way, you’re essentially giving it a break to regain its composure. Simply unplug the router and replug it after a few minutes to restart it.

If that doesn’t work, you can try resetting the router. This restores the router to its factory settings, removing any changes or customizations you may have made. It’s a clean slate that can fix connectivity issues. Simply press the reset button on your router for this.

If nothing helps, reach out to the experts by contacting your Internet Service Provider (ISP). The problem may not always be under your control. You can find out if there are widespread network outages and if your ISP can help you troubleshoot your unique connection by contacting them.

Fix 2: Clear Cache & Data Of Streaming App

Cleaning out the streaming app’s cache and data can often help fix issues with video playback. It deletes the app’s temporary files and resets the settings to their factory defaults. You can think of it as decluttering the area for better streaming quality. Follow the steps below to do this:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Apps.
3. Then, tap on See all apps.
4. Tap on the streaming app (YouTube, Netflix, or any other app).
5. Tap on Storage & cache.
6. Tap on Clear cache.
7. Then, tap on Clear data. Doing this will wipe out all of your app information, including login details and configured settings.
8. Reopen the app and try playing the video. If this doesn’t fix the issue, we’ll try something else.

Fix 3: Free Up Space

Problems with video playback are only one of many Android functionality issues that might arise from insufficient storage space. If your device’s storage is nearly full, the app may not work as smoothly, which may cause video playback issues.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on System.
3. Then, tap on About phone.
4. Tap on Storage.

Here’s how to free up space on your device:

1. Remove unwanted applications.
2. Clear unnecessary cache.
3. Look through your files and delete anything you don’t need, such as old photos, videos, or papers.
4. If your device has an SD card slot, you can free up internal storage by files to the card.
5. Try using a cloud storage for saving your files.
6. If you’ve downloaded music or podcasts for offline listening, remove any old or unnecessary files.

If you free up some space on your device’s storage and optimize its settings, you may be able to fix Android 14’s video playback issue. If this doesn’t work, we’ll have to try something else.

Fix 4: Update the Streaming App

You should also make sure that the streaming app is up to date. Developers release updates periodically to fix bugs and add new features. Updating the app ensures it is compatible with the latest video formats and features, which may resolve any compatibility issues you are having. Follow the steps below to update the app:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your phone.
2. Tap on your profile picture at the top.
3. Tap on Manage apps & device.
4. Then, tap on See details under Updates.
5. Find the streaming app in the list and tap on it.
6. Tap on Update.
7. Once the app has been updated, reopen it and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 5: Reinstall the Streaming App

If the streaming app suddenly stops functioning as intended, reinstalling it should help fix the issue. Doing so ensures that you won’t have any glitches in your streaming due to corrupted files or misconfigured settings. Follow the steps below to reinstall the streaming app:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Apps.
3. Then, tap on See all apps.
4. Tap on the streaming app (YouTube, Netflix, or any other app).
5. Tap on Uninstall and confirm.
6. Then, go to the Google Play Store and reinstall the app.

Fix 6: Check For Server Issues

The problem could be with the streaming service’s servers rather than your device. There may be interruptions in the video stream due to server maintenance, outages, or other technical difficulties. If you suspect a server-related issue, try these steps:

1. To see if the streaming service you’re using is down, go to its website or social media accounts. They frequently update us on the server’s status and any problems that have cropped up.
2. Search for online discussion groups or websites that report on the availability of popular streaming services. Real-time reports of problems and outages from users are common.
3. If the problem is at the server end, you may need to wait until the service is back up before trying again. Come back later and give the video another shot.

Fix 7: Restart your Phone

You can also try restarting your phone to see if that fixes the issue. Restarting your phone is like giving it a power nap. It will iron out any minor software glitches or bugs that could be causing the video playback issue. Follow the steps below to restart your phone:

1. Press and hold the power button on your phone until the power off menu appears.
2. Depending on your device, tap on Restart or drag the slider to restart your phone.

Fix 8: Try Playing Another Video

Changing from one video to another is like flipping the TV channel when one won’t play. It helps establish if the problem is specific to a single video or symptomatic of a wider issue. Some videos may work without a hitch, while others may not.

If the other video works without any issues, then there might be an issue with the video you were trying to play earlier. If the issue persists, move on to the next solution.

Fix 9: Check the Video Format and Encoding

Sometimes, problems occur during video playback due to incompatibilities with video formats or codecs. It’s possible that some video formats and codecs won’t work on your Android device.

Make sure the video’s format is compatible with your Android device. Popular file types include MP4, H.264, and VP9. The video may need to be converted using video converter software if it is not already in a supported format.

If you’re having trouble seeing the video, it may be because you’re not using the latest version of your preferred media player. Older media player software may have trouble playing newer video formats. Update the app and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 10: Try a Different Media Player

Some media players may be more capable of analyzing and playing videos than others. The idea is to find one that correctly analyzes the content and displays it in a format that your device can handle without a hitch.

You can find many on the Google Play Store. We recommend trying out VLC For Android or MX Player. Nonetheless, it is always better to use the stock media player that’s available on your phone.

When one media player doesn’t support a particular video format or codec, switching to another player could fix the problem and make the movie play smoothly. If it doesn’t work, move down to the next solution.

Fix 11: Check your Date and Time

The exact time and date on your device is required for authenticating and decrypting data. Having the correct date and time settings is as important for the commencement of your video streaming as it is for the start of any other event. Here’s how to correct your date and time:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on System.
3. Then, tap on Data & time.
4. Turn on the toggles for all the following options:
   • Set time automatically
   • Set time zone automatically
   • Use location to set time zone
   • Use locale default

Check to see if the video is now working on your phone. If the issue persists, move on to the next solution.

Fix 12: Reset Network Settings

Problems with the network can interrupt video playback or streaming. Sometimes, resetting your Android device’s network settings will fix connectivity issues and make videos play better. Follow the steps below to reset your network settings:

Note: Resetting the network settings will delete all your saved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks, VPNs, and other network-related configurations.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on System.
3. Then, scroll down again and tap on Reset options.
4. Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
5. Typically, a warning that this will reset network settings will appear before you can proceed. Confirm that and move forward.
6. You must restart your device after this.

Connect to your Wi-Fi network after the device has restarted, and try playing a video again to see if the problem persists.

Fix 13: Turn OFF Data Saver

Turning off Data Saver on your Android device allows unrestricted data usage for the streaming app. Because of the data saver’s bandwidth restrictions, video playback might not be as smooth or high quality as usual.

If you disable Data Saver, the streaming app will be free to use the full bandwidth available, which may result in a more satisfying viewing experience. Follow the steps below to turn off the data saver:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Network & internet.
3. Then, tap on Data Saver.
4. Turn off the toggle for Use data saver.

Fix 14: Disable Data Limits

Disabling data limits will free you from any imposed caps on your data transfer. If you have set up a data limit, you may suffer buffering or other issues while watching a video. By turning off this feature, the streaming app will have access to all of the data it needs to function. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Network & internet.
3. Tap on SIMs and make sure your mobile data is turned on.
4. Tap on Data warning & limit.
5. Turn off the toggle for Set data limit.

Fix 15: Turn OFF VPN

Virtual Private Network (VPN) use can occasionally degrade video streaming quality by modifying data transmission path and latency. If you’re experiencing choppy video playback, disabling the VPN may help.

This will ensure that your device is making a direct connection to the streaming server. The quality and consistency of your video streaming may suffer if you use a VPN. Follow the steps below to turn it off:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Network & internet.
3. Then, tap on VPN.
4. Tap on the gear icon next to the VPN network that you are connected to.
5. Turn off the VPN. You can also remove that VPN by tapping Forget.

Fix 16: Reset All Settings

If you’re still having trouble playing videos on your phone, you might try resetting all of the settings to see if that helps. Restoring the factory settings may fix any system-level issues that were interfering with your streaming app or video playing. It’s a comprehensive fix that can undo any corrupted system settings. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on System.
3. Then, scroll down again and tap on Reset options.
4. Select Reset app preferences.
5. Enter your PIN, password, or pattern to confirm.
6. Tap on Reset app preferences again.
7. Check to see if the video is now working.

Fix 17: Turn OFF Anti-Virus Software

You can try to temporarily disable the antivirus software on your device. Video streaming apps are not immune to having their functionality disrupted by excessively cautious anti-virus software. You can tell if the antivirus software is to blame for the video playback issue by temporarily disabling it and seeing if the problem still occurs.

Fix 18: Uninstall Suspicious Apps and Software

It is possible that conflicts or issues are disrupting your video playback and that removing suspicious or potentially troublesome apps and software will fix the problem. It’s possible that video playback could have hiccups or slowdowns if an app conflicts with them. Remove these apps one by one and see if the issue has been resolved. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Apps.
3. Then, tap on See all apps.
4. Tap on the streaming app (YouTube, Netflix, or any other app).
5. Tap on Uninstall and confirm.
6. If the issue is resolved after removing the app, then it is most likely the culprit.

Fix 19: Check Your SD Card For Issues

Playback problems may occur if you use an SD card to store your videos or the streaming app. It is crucial to verify the SD card does not have any flaws or corruption. Fix or replace your defective SD card, and the video playback issue should be resolved.

First, make sure the SD card is securely placed. Remove the SD card from its slot and reinsert it firmly this time. Check the SD card’s integrity by inspecting it for damage, such as cracks or damaged pins. If your SD card has signs of age or damage, you should undoubtedly replace it.

You can test the functionality of the card by inserting it into an SD card reader on another device (such as a computer). Check whether your Android smartphone or the SD card is at fault.

Even if the SD card in your Android device appears to be functioning properly, you should still back up your data and format the card. Do not proceed unless you are willing to reset your card and start over.

Play the video again to see whether the problem persists after you’ve checked the SD card and perhaps solved the issue. If the problem persists, move on to the next solution.

Fix 20: Check for Any Available Updates

Make sure you have the latest version of the Android 14 update installed on your device. Improvements in stability, performance, and compatibility are commonplace in updates. Perhaps the video not working issue was fixed in a recent patch. Follow these steps to check for any available updates and install them:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Scroll down and tap on System.
3. Tap on Software update.
4. Now, tap on Check for updates on the bottom right. Make sure your phone is connected to the internet.
5. If any updates are available for installation, tap on Download & install.
6. Finally, restart your phone for the changes to take effect.

Fix 21: Factory Reset (Optional)

Lastly, you can also perform a factory reset to see if that helps fix the issue. This will return your device to its factory or default settings, thereby deleting all your apps and data. Since this deletes all your data, you will want to take a backup of everything beforehand. Follow the steps below to reset your phone:

Note: This is an optional step, so if you don’t want to do this, you can contact your manufacturer or roll back to Android 13.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Passwords & accounts.
3. Remove any Google accounts that are linked to your device.
4. Go back to the main Settings page and tap on System.
5. Tap on Reset options.
6. Tap on Erase all data (factory reset) > Erase all data.
7. Enter your PIN, password, or pattern if prompted.
8. Finally, tap on Erase all data.
9. Your phone will now delete all the data and restore your phone to its factory settings.
10. Set up your phone again and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 22: Contact your Manufacturer

If you still have the video not working issue on your phone, you should contact the manufacturer or take your phone to the nearest service center for further assistance. It’s not always possible to find a workable solution on your own. Contacting the manufacturer of your product can provide you with answers to your questions and help with problems that are unique to your device or situation.

Final Words

Android 14 is a great update, but it has brought certain issues with it. One such issue is the video not working. That’s why we have compiled a list of solutions that will help you fix the issue. Make sure that you try all the solutions mentioned in the article before coming to the conclusion.

If you are still facing the issue, then you should contact your manufacturer for further assistance. You can even revert to Android 13 if you want to. Did these fixes resolve the issue for you? Do you know of any other fixes that could solve the issue? Let us know in the comments section below.