IG Notifications Not Working: A Troubleshooting Guide

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Karen Lin

Instagram 101 | Feb 16, 2024

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Instagram is one of the most popular social networking sites, with around 1 billion active users. The platform’s popularity is mainly due to its adaptability, enabling users to share content while establishing online interactions. Although Instagram has a web interface, its mobile app is still the best way to access its features. The Instagram app keeps users abreast of account activity by sending prompt notifications. Notifications are essential to social media platforms since they alert users of new activities such as likes, comments, and shares. Several Instagram users have reported issues with their IG notifications not working. This blog post will explore the potential causes of this problem and provide solutions.

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Why Are My Instagram Notifications Not Working?

If you are wondering why Instagram notifications are not working, it’s likely because of the algorithm changes. These changes have resulted in occasional glitches in its functions. Although these alterations aim to improve user experience, they can inadvertently affect certain platform features.

Common Issues Behind Instagram DM Notifications Not Working

Here are a few reasons why Instagram notifications are glitching, along with their workable solutions:

Push Notification: Disabling push notifications is a common contributing factor to Instagram DM notifications not working. Instagram users who have not enabled push notifications may discover that their alerts do not work.

App Cache: Instagram notifications may fail to work due to broken cache data in the Instagram application. Users have reported that clearing the cache of the Instagram app fixes the problem. This simple but efficient technique becomes important in minimizing any interruptions resulting from damaged cache data.

Outdated Instagram App: The application’s failure to work properly can also cause Instagram notifications to stop. When an app becomes faulty or stops working properly, reinstall it from the app store.

DND Setting: Check your device’s “Do Not Disturb” (DND) setting. If this option is mistakenly activated, it might silence all incoming notifications, including those from Instagram.

Low Power Mode: You can limit the battery and data use by apps running in the background. Setting your phone to use little background data might cause delays in receiving Instagram notifications.

Unsynchronized Account: Another possible cause is that devices aren’t in sync. When updating account information on one device, Instagram settings may not synchronize properly, causing lag or errors. This disparity could cause a delay or interruption in the transmission of alerts.

Background App Restrictions: This limitation may cause delays in real-time Instagram notifications, affecting certain devices and causing disrupted alerts.

Account Restrictions or Bans: You may not receive notifications if Instagram bans or restricts your account. The platform can limit message settings, making it harder to keep up with activity.

If your Instagram DM notifications are not working, these steps can improve your experience, enabling faster alerts and smoother communication.

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How To Fix Instagram Notifications Not Working

If you’re facing issues with Instagram alerts not working and wondering how to fix Instagram notifications not working, don’t worry. You can try several methods to fix the problem on Android and iOS devices.

Ways To Fix Instagram Notifications Not Working: iPhone or Android

Here are the different ways to fix Instagram notifications not working on iPhone or Android devices:

  1. Enable Push Notification

By turning on push notifications, Instagram users can ensure they don’t miss out on anything. Get real-time updates on likes, comments, and new followers to improve your interaction with the service.

To activate Instagram push notifications, follow these steps:

  • Adjust settings from your device 

  1. Go to your device’s Settings app.
  2. Click on “Apps & Notifications.”
  3. Select “Manage Apps” or “Apps info” to access your apps.
  4. Find and choose “Instagram.”
  5. Press “Notifications” now.
  6. Here, you can organize your Instagram alerts. Simply choose and activate the ones that apply to you.

  • Confirm changes through the Instagram Application

  1. Start your device’s Instagram application.
  2. Click on your profile icon and tap the Menu button in the upper-right corner.
  3. Select “Settings” and then press “Notifications.”
  4. Customize your Instagram alerts by selecting categories and enabling desired notifications.

2. Clear App Cache

Clearing the Instagram app’s cache in your device’s settings regularly can improve its speed. This routine upkeep helps keep everything running smoothly. For this:

  1. Open your “Settings.”
  2. Click on “Apps & Notifications.”
  3. Locate Instagram and select it. 
  4. Click on “Clear Cache.”

3. Update Instagram App

Ensure you have the most recent version of the Instagram app by checking the app store for updates often. Update the Instagram app to access its latest features, bug fixes, and enhancements, and make the most of its alerts.

Additional Solutions for Resolving Instagram Notification Issues

Sometimes, the problems lie beyond an outdated application or built-up cache. If the previous remedies don’t work, you may need to check for advanced settings in your device or app.

Disable DND Setting

Turn off the “Do Not Disturb” feature. This will ensure you receive all notifications and alerts promptly, including those from Instagram.

To turn this setting off, follow these steps:

  1. Access your device’s Settings.
  2. Select “Focus,” then “Do Not Disturb.”
  3. Turn off Do Not Disturb. After turning it off, your device will receive notifications again.

Switch Off Low Power Mode

Turning off low power mode will improve your notification delivery. This update removes constraints on background processes, ensuring prompt delivery of Instagram notifications.

To turn off Instagram’s power-saving features, do as follows:

  1. Go to your device’s settings.
  2. Enter ‘Battery Optimization’ in the search bar.
  3. Select “all apps” from the battery optimization menu.
  4. Click Instagram and select “Not optimized.”

Here are the steps to turn Low Power Mode on or off on your iPhone:

  1. Go to Settings and select battery.
  2. To disable Low Power Mode, toggle it off.

Turning off Power Saving Mode on Android varies depending on the phone. Here are general instructions:

  1. Access the drop-down panel by dragging it down from the top of the screen.
  2. Find the power-saving mode.
  3. Switch off the power-saving mode.

Alternatively, you can go to Settings, search for “power saving,” and turn it off. The specific steps can differ slightly based on your Android device’s manufacturer.

Background App Refresh

  1. Adjust your device’s settings to allow Instagram to run in the background to improve real-time notifications. This ensures that alerts keep coming in so you can always know what’s happening with your account. Go to settings and click on “General.”
  2. Click on “Background App Refresh.”
  3. Toggle the “Instagram button.”

Snapshot of the Instagram app available on the Apple Store.

Contacting Instagram Support To Fix IG Notification 

Contacting Instagram support is one of the most effective measures users can take when they have Instagram notification issues. The support team can help resolve any problems that prevent notifications from functioning properly. These issues include technical glitches, account-specific problems, or broader system concerns.

Before contacting Instagram Support, users should check out the in-app or online help section for answers to frequently asked questions. Instagram’s help section includes FAQs and in-depth tips covering various subjects, including notifications settings and how to manage them. You can find this information in the Instagram app “Settings” or the Instagram Help Center on the web. 

Instagram users looking for immediate assistance can submit support requests. They can access links or prompts in the help center to guide them through reporting a problem or contacting assistance. Additionally, they can explain their concerns by filling out a contact form or emailing.

Instagram’s official social media pages frequently update users and address questions. However, these social media channels may be less responsive than the app or website’s official help channels.

When calling customer service, it is essential to provide specific details. Users should document the start time of the issue and previous troubleshooting attempts. If you want quick help from the support team, make sure you’re communicating clearly and concisely.

The response time from Instagram Support can vary, as the platform caters to a massive user base. Users should be patient and follow up with their support request if required to have it resolved quickly.

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Word of Advice 

Users must continuously monitor and adjust their notification settings to receive timely Instagram notifications. This includes keeping up with platform changes and device settings.

It is important to check notification settings frequently to prevent any disruptions caused by platform updates. These updates can sometimes cause issues with notification features. By keeping up with the recent changes and adjusting settings accordingly, users can ensure maximum efficiency on the platform.

Frequent monitoring also allows users to identify and fix any misconfigurations that may have occurred over time. Software upgrades, new apps, and accidental configuration changes can sometimes cause notifications to stop working. Users can address issues by monitoring and adjusting settings and receive uninterrupted notifications for likes, comments, and other interactions. Continuous monitoring allows users to adapt to Instagram and other social media apps for teens

Boost Your Social Media Presence With Path Social

There could be several reasons why you are experiencing issues with IG notifications not working. With the increasing number of users on the app, it is becoming more common for notifications to malfunction or crash. If basic troubleshooting steps fail, restart the device or reinstall the app. Updating to the latest operating system version fixes bugs that may affect notifications.

At Path Social, our mission is to help you achieve your social media goals. We understand the constantly evolving digital landscape and tailor our strategies to meet your requirements. Whether you’re a business or Instagram influencer, let us help you establish and enhance your online presence. 

We provide comprehensive social media services, including content optimization, audience engagement, and data-driven analysis to maximize your impact and influence.

Are you prepared to advance and expand your online influence? Contact us now and start growing and gaining Instagram followers today with Path Social!