Kik is a popular messaging app widely used by teens and young adults. However, many iPhone users face issues with Kik not working properly on their devices. This comprehensive guide will provide solutions to fix the common problems faced when using Kik on iPhones.
Overview of Kik
Kik Messenger is a free messaging app launched in 2010 by Kik Interactive, based in Ontario, Canada. It has several features that set it apart from other messaging apps:
- Users can register without providing their phone number, making it pseudo-anonymous.
- Has options for chatting, group chats, bots, games, and even anonymous messaging.
- Popular among teenagers in Western countries, including the US, Canada, UK, etc.
- Claims to have about 300 million registered users worldwide as of 2019.
However, Kik usage has been declining and the app faced shutdown risks in 2019. The company now focuses more on cryptocurrency development. There are also concerns around potential Kik scams and safety issues, especially for younger users.
Why Kik Stops Working on iPhones
There can be various reasons for Kik not functioning properly on iPhones. Let’s look at some of the most common ones:
Connectivity Issues
Kik requires a stable internet connection. Poor WiFi or mobile data connections can prevent Kik from loading and sending messages.
Outdated App Version
Using an outdated Kik app version that is not optimized for recent iOS versions can cause crashes, freezes, and bugs.
Insufficient Storage
iPhones with nearly full storage run apps sluggishly. Kik needs free space to save its data and cache files.
Software Incompatibilities
Kik may not be fully compatible with the latest iOS versions. This can lead to app instability.
Server Outages
Temporary disruptions or maintenance on Kik’s servers prevent the app from retrieving data.
Third-party Keyboard Conflicts
Non-default keyboards sometimes interfere with Kik’s messaging functions.
Device Overheating
Excessive overheating can cause iPhone apps including Kik to lag or freeze frequently.
Jailbroken iPhones
Jailbroken devices are modified in ways that may break app functionality and stability.
Account and Login Issues
Problems with passwords, usernames, logging in, or accessing your account can also disrupt Kik’s functionality. Issues like forgotten Kik username or getting stuck in password reset prevent accessing your account.
By determining the specific reason, you can use the appropriate solutions to get Kik working properly again on your iPhone.
Fixes and Solutions for Kik Not Working on iPhones
Here are the best troubleshooting tips and methods to resolve various Kik problems on iPhones:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
An unstable internet connection is the most common reason Kik acts up. Open Settings > Wi-Fi and ensure you have at least 2-3 bars of signal strength.
Alternatively, you can switch to mobile data by toggling Wi-Fi off and turning on cellular data. Move to an area with better reception. Kik requires a fast, steady internet connection to work properly.
2. Update the Kik App
Outdated app versions lead to crashes, bugs, and broken features. Updating Kik can fix these issues.
On your iPhone, open the App Store > Tap your profile icon > Check for Kik app updates under Available Updates. If an update is available, tap Update.
You can also turn on automatic app updates in your iPhone’s App Store settings. This will automatically download the latest Kik version when available.
3. Update Your iPhone’s iOS Version
Older iOS versions may not be fully compatible with the newest Kik app. This can make Kik unstable.
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any pending iOS updates. Keep your iPhone’s system up-to-date for best performance with apps including Kik.
4. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can clear out minor software glitches that are preventing Kik from working.
To restart, press and hold the Power button on your iPhone until the “Slide to Power Off” prompt appears. Swipe the slider, wait 30 seconds, then power your phone back on.
Restarting gives all apps a fresh start, clearing any issues that caused problems in Kik.
5. Reinstall Kik App
Reinstalling the app erases any corrupted files or outdated configurations that are disrupting normal functionality.
Delete Kik from your iPhone by holding the app icon until it starts wiggling, then tapping the X icon.
Open the App Store, search for “Kik Messenger” and reinstall it on your device.
6. Free Up Storage Space
When your iPhone’s storage space runs low, apps can lag and crash frequently.
Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to see which apps and files are taking up space. Delete old conversations in Kik, delete unused apps and files, offload photos/videos to a computer, etc. to free up storage.
Having at least 1-2 GB of free space can prevent stability issues in Kik.
7. Reset Network Settings
Resetting all network settings on your iPhone fixes connectivity problems that may disrupt Kik.
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This will erase Wi-Fi passwords and other network configs, then rebuild them clean.
8. Uninstall Third-Party Keyboards
Non-default keyboards sometimes conflict with Kik’s messaging function.
To test this, uninstall all added keyboards under Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards. Revert to the system default keyboard.
If issues persist, third-party keyboards are likely not the cause. But it’s an easy fix to try out.
9. Contact Kik Support
If you still can’t get Kik working after trying the above, reach out to Kik’s customer support through the in-app options or their website at help.kik.com. Clearly describe your troubleshooting steps taken and the issues faced. Their specialized team may be able to resolve persistent problems.
10. Log Out and Log Back In
Sometimes logging out and logging back in can reset any account issues. Go to Settings > Log Out. Then enter your credentials again and log in. This resets the app’s login status.
11. Use Kik on Desktop
Consider using Kik on your desktop if issues persist only on your iPhone. Download Kik for PC or Mac to continue messaging. Syncing with your mobile allows seamless chatting.
Key Takeaways on Fixing Kik Not Working on iPhones
- Check your internet connection first and ensure it is strong and stable.
- Update to the latest versions of Kik and iOS. Outdated apps or OS can cause incompatibility issues.
- Restart your iPhone to refresh the device and clear out minor glitches.
- Reinstall Kik to wipe any corrupted app files causing problems.
- Free up storage space if your iPhone’s memory is nearly full.
- Try resetting network settings to fix connectivity problems.
- Contact Kik support if other basic troubleshooting steps don’t work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Kik keep crashing on my iPhone?
Frequent Kik crashes on iPhone can occur due to outdated app versions, insufficient storage, iOS incompatibility issues, or problems with your internet connection. Update Kik/iOS, restart your device, reinstall Kik, free up storage, ensure WiFi signal strength, and use mobile data to troubleshoot.
Why is Kik not sending messages on iPhone?
Kik messages not sending on iPhones is typically due to poor internet connectivity. Check your WiFi or cellular data signals and move closer to the router. Restart your iPhone and Kik app. Resetting network settings can also fix sending issues.
How do I fix Kik login failed on iPhone?
Kik login failures on iPhone are usually caused by internet connection problems or app malfunctions. Troubleshoot by switching between WiFi and mobile data, updating Kik, reinstalling the app, restarting your device, and contacting Kik support if issues continue.
Why does Kik keep logging me out on iPhone?
Getting logged out of Kik constantly on iPhone can happen due to app bugs, outdated versions, device restarts, or network changes triggering re-logins. Updating Kik, resetting network settings, reinstalling the app, and enabling Touch/Face ID can help prevent unwanted logouts.
Why does Kik keep freezing on my iPhone?
Frequent freezing in Kik on iPhones can occur when there are too many background processes running. Try force quitting other apps, reducing animations under Settings > Accessibility, uninstalling problematic apps like keyboards, and restarting your device to free up resources.
Why can’t I access certain Kik features on iPhone?
Some Kik features like joining group chats may be restricted on iPhones due to iOS limitations. Make sure Kik is updated to the latest version, and contact Kik support if you are unable to access specific features.
Conclusion
Kik not functioning properly on iPhones is a common frustration faced by users. However, the problem can usually be resolved through troubleshooting steps like checking your internet connection, updating the Kik and iOS versions, restarting your iPhone, reinstalling Kik, freeing up storage space, resetting network settings, removing third-party keyboards, and contacting Kik support if needed.
Persistence problems may require requesting help directly from Kik’s team to diagnose the underlying issue. With the fixes and best practices provided in this guide, you should be able to get Kik working smoothly again on your iPhone.
