Few things are more annoying than a video that keeps buffering, especially when you have a strong connection. If your OnePlus 13 struggles to stream videos smoothly, it’s likely due to network issues, app glitches, or background limits affecting performance.
Here’s how to fix video buffering problems and enjoy smooth playback again.
Why Your OnePlus 13 Videos Might Be Stuck on Buffering
- Slow or unstable internet connection.
- Corrupted app cache or temporary data.
- Background apps consuming bandwidth.
- Power-saving or data-saving features limiting app performance.
- Outdated app or system software.
Check Your Internet Connection.
A weak or unstable connection is the most common reason for constant buffering. Streaming apps need a steady network to load content smoothly.
- Open Settings, and then tap Wi-Fi.
- Tap the connected network, and then check the signal strength or try reconnecting.
If you’re using mobile data, turn it off for a few seconds, then turn it back on. This refreshes your connection and often improves speed.
Restart Your Device.
A simple restart clears background processes that may be interfering with your internet or streaming apps.
- Press and hold the Power key.
- Tap Restart, and then wait for the phone to boot back up.
After restarting, try playing a video again to see if the buffering stops.
Clear App Cache and Data.
Streaming apps store cached data that can sometimes cause playback issues. Clearing it ensures the app loads fresh data from the server.
- Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
- Find the app that’s buffering, tap Storage and cache, and then tap Clear cache.
If the problem continues, tap Clear storage or Clear data, but keep in mind this may sign you out of the app.
Disable Data Saver and Battery Optimization.
Power-saving and data-saving features can limit how streaming apps use your network and background resources.
- Open Settings, and then tap Network and Internet.
- Tap Data Saver, and then toggle it off.
Next, open Settings again, tap Battery, tap Battery optimization, and select the streaming app. Choose Don’t optimize.
Update the App and System Software.
Outdated software may cause compatibility or performance issues during streaming. Keeping both your apps and phone up to date helps maintain stability.
- Open the Play Store, tap your profile icon, and tap Manage apps and device.
- Tap Updates available, and update the streaming app if listed.
Then open Settings, tap System, and tap System update to check for the latest software version.
Reset Network Settings.
If the buffering persists, resetting network settings can fix corrupted configurations that affect connectivity.
- Open Settings, and then tap System.
- Tap Reset options, and then tap Reset Wi-Fi, mobile, and Bluetooth.
Your saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings will be removed, so reconnect afterward.
Fixing buffering on your OnePlus 13 usually comes down to improving your connection or clearing corrupted data. Once done, videos should load faster and play without interruption.
FAQs
Why do videos buffer even with a strong Wi-Fi signal?
This can happen if your internet speed drops temporarily or if multiple devices share the same network bandwidth.
Will using mobile data instead of Wi-Fi help?
Yes, if your Wi-Fi is unstable. Switching to mobile data can provide a more consistent connection in some areas.
Does clearing cache delete my downloaded videos?
No. Clearing cache only removes temporary files. However, clearing app data may delete downloads, so use it carefully.
