Watching a video that never gets past the loading circle can be frustrating, especially when your internet seems fine. On the OnePlus 15, video buffering issues usually come from network instability, app settings, or background restrictions that interfere with streaming. The good news is that most of these problems can be fixed in just a few minutes with the right adjustments.
Why Your OnePlus 15 Keeps Buffering Videos
- Your internet connection is unstable or switching between networks.
- Background data or battery restrictions are limiting streaming apps.
- The video app cache is corrupted or overloaded.
- Video quality is set too high for your current connection.
- Temporary system issues after an update or long uptime.
Restart Your Phone
Restarting clears temporary memory and refreshes network services that streaming apps rely on. This simple step often fixes buffering caused by background processes that are stuck or overloaded.
Swipe down from the top of the screen to open Quick Settings.
Tap the Power icon, and then tap Restart.
Wait for the phone to turn back on and test video playback again.
Check Your Internet Connection
Video buffering is most commonly caused by a weak or unstable connection. Even if Wi-Fi shows as connected, the speed may be inconsistent.
Open Settings, and then tap Wi-Fi and network.
Tap Wi-Fi or Mobile network, and make sure the connection is active and stable.
If possible, switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see which works better.
Turn Off Battery Optimization for the Video App
Battery optimization can limit background activity, which affects video streaming. Disabling it for the affected app allows smoother buffering and playback.
Open Settings, and then tap Battery.
Tap App battery management, and select the video app that keeps buffering.
Set it to Unrestricted or turn off optimization.
Clear the App Cache
A corrupted cache can prevent videos from loading properly. Clearing it removes temporary files without deleting your account or downloads.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
Tap App management, select the video app, and then tap Storage usage.
Tap Clear cache, and reopen the app to test playback.
Lower the Video Quality
High resolution videos require more bandwidth and can buffer constantly on slower connections. Reducing video quality helps the stream load faster and play smoothly.
Open the video app, and then start playing a video.
Tap the Settings or Quality option within the player.
Select a lower resolution such as 720p or Auto.
Update the Video App
Older app versions may have bugs that cause buffering issues. Updating ensures better compatibility with the OnePlus 15 system.
Open the Play Store, and then tap your profile icon.
Tap Manage apps and device, and update the video app if available.
Restart the app and try streaming again.
Video buffering on the OnePlus 15 is usually tied to network behavior or app restrictions rather than hardware problems. Once you stabilize the connection and remove unnecessary limits, videos should load and play normally again.
FAQs
Why does video buffering happen even on fast Wi-Fi?
Fast Wi-Fi does not always mean stable Wi-Fi. Network congestion, router issues, or background apps using bandwidth can still cause buffering.
Does 5G cause more buffering than Wi-Fi?
In some areas, yes. If the signal constantly switches between 5G and LTE, video streams may pause. Locking onto a stable network often helps.
Should I reset my phone if buffering keeps happening?
A full reset is rarely needed. If all steps fail, checking for system updates or contacting your internet provider is usually a better option.
