Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, and its direct messaging feature (DM) allows users to have private conversations with other users.
However, some users may experience issues with their DM notifications not working properly. If you’re having trouble receiving notifications for new DMs, there are a few steps you can take to fix the problem.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why this might be happening and offer some possible solutions.
Why Don’t I get Notifications from Instagram Messages?
You may be wondering: why are my Instagram dm notifications not working? Here are some possible reasons.
1. Network Connectivity Issues
One of the most common reasons for Instagram DM notifications not working is a lack of network connectivity.
This can be caused by a weak or unstable internet connection, which can prevent the app from receiving push notifications.
2. App Update or Bug
Another reason why you are not getting direct message notifications on Instagram is due to an app update or bug.
Instagram regularly releases updates to improve the app’s performance and fix any bugs. If you have not updated the app to the latest version, it’s a good idea to do so.
Also, if you are experiencing notification issues after an update, it’s possible that a bug has been introduced and the developers are working on a fix.
3. Phone Settings
It’s also possible that the issue with DM notifications is related to your phone’s settings.
On iPhone, for example, you can go to the “Settings” app, then “Notifications,” and ensure that Instagram is allowed to send notifications. On Android, go to “Settings,” then “Apps,” and check the settings for Instagram.
Make sure that “Notifications” is turned on and that the app is not muted. You can find more details below regarding how to fix Instagram direct message (DM) notifications not working.
How to Fix it if your Instagram Direct Message notifications are not working
Here are some proven troubleshooting steps to help you fix it when Instagram is not notifying you upon receiving direct messages (DMs).
1. Check your Notification Settings
If your phone’s notification settings are not properly configured, Instagram DMs will not notify you.
Hence, the first step is to check your notification settings on Instagram to make sure that DM notifications are turned on.
To check your Instagram DM Notifications:
- Tap on the profile icon in the bottom right corner of the screen.
- Tap on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner of the screen.
- Select Settings.
- Tap on Notifications.
- Proceed to tap on “Messages.”
- Here, ensure you have turned on notifications for “Messages” and “Message Reminders“.
Doing this will ensure you are notified whenever someone sends you a direct message on Instagram. What’s more, Instagram will notify you when you have not opened that message after a number of days.
2. Check your Phone’s Settings
Your phone’s settings could be the reason why you don’t get notifications from Instagram messages.
Therefore, check your phone’s settings to make sure that Instagram is allowed to send notifications. Go to your phone’s settings, then tap on Notifications, and find Instagram.
To check your phone’s notification settings for Instagram:
- Go to your phone’s settings.
- Tap on “App Management” and proceed to tap on “App List.”
- Select Instagram from the list of apps that appear.
- Tap notifications.
- Turn on the toggle for “Allow Notifications” as well as “Direct” and “All Direct Notifications.”
Make sure that Allow Notifications is turned on. Additionally, check if the notification settings for Instagram are set to “Banner” or “Alerts” in order to receive notifications as soon as a message arrives.
3. Update Instagram to fix DM Notification Issues
If your notification settings are correct, the next step is to make sure that you have the latest version of the Instagram app.
Go to the App Store or Google Play Store, search for Instagram, and see if there’s an update available. Updating the app can often fix bugs and improve performance.
4. Check for a software update
Another solution is to check for a software update for your device. Sometimes, bugs in the operating system can cause issues with app notifications.
To check for a software update, go to your phone’s settings, tap on Software Update or System Update, and see if there’s an update available.
5. Clear Instagram’s Cache
Clearing the cache of the Instagram app can also help fix the problem.
Clearing the cache from the Instagram app can generally help resolve problems with the app in several ways:
- Clearing the cache can free up storage space on your device, which can help improve the performance of the app.
- Cached data is data that is stored on your device to help the app load faster. When the cache becomes outdated or corrupt, it can cause the app to function poorly or crash. Clearing the cache can remove this outdated or corrupt data and help the app run smoothly again.
To clear the Instagram app’s cache:
- Go to your phone’s settings.
- Tap on “App Management” and proceed to tap on “App List.”
- Select Instagram from the list of apps that appear.
- Tap on “Storage and Cache.
- Finally, tap on “Clear cache.”
6. Check if you’re Blocked
Check if the account you’re trying to message has blocked you. If you’ve been blocked, you won’t receive any notifications from that account, and the messages will be delivered but you won’t be able to see them.
If your Instagram account is blocked, your account will be restricted from accessing all of the features of the app. This means that you will not be able to view or post content, receive direct messages, or see the profiles of other users. You will also be unable to use Instagram’s web version.
Additionally, you will not receive notifications about new posts, comments, or direct messages, and you will not be able to receive push notifications on your device.
Your account will essentially be in a “locked” state and you will not be able to interact with other users or access any of the app’s features until the block is lifted.
7. Restart your Phone
If none of the above steps work, try restarting your phone. This can help clear out any bugs or glitches that may be causing the issue with your DM notifications.
Sometimes, when things aren’t working properly on your phone, like notifications from Instagram, restarting your phone can help fix the problem.
Restarting your phone is like turning it off and then turning it back on again. When you do this, it can help clear up any bugs or glitches that may be causing the problem with the DM notifications.
It’s a simple process and can be done by holding down the power button on your phone until you see the option to turn it off, then turn it back on by holding the power button again.
It’s also important to make sure that your phone’s software and the Instagram app are updated to the latest version. Sometimes, updates include bug fixes that can resolve issues with notifications.
Restarting your phone and making sure your phone software and app are up to date are simple steps that can help fix direct message notification problems with Instagram.
8. Contact Instagram support
If you’ve tried all of the above steps and are still having trouble with your DM notifications, you can contact Instagram support for further assistance.
Instagram support can help you troubleshoot the problem and provide additional guidance.
To inform Instagram of your DM notification issues, go to “Settings” and tap on “Report a Problem.”
You can send a message like this:
Hello, I have been facing an issue with my account where I am not receiving notifications when someone sends me a direct message on Instagram.
I have tried restarting my phone, checking my notification settings and making sure my app is updated to the latest version but the problem still persists.
I would greatly appreciate it if you could assist me in resolving this issue. Thank you for your time and help.
You can also attach any related screenshots or information that may help them understand the issue better.
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing issues with your Instagram DM notifications not working, there are several steps you can take to try and fix the problem.
Check your notification settings, make sure that Instagram is allowed to send notifications on your phone, update the Instagram app, check for a software update, clear Instagram’s cache, check if you’re blocked, restart your phone, and if all else fails, reach out to Instagram Support.
By following these steps, you should be able to get your Instagram DM notifications working properly again.