Fix "Sorry This Media File Doesn't Exist WhatsApp" Error Now

Facing issues on WhatsApp is not a fun experience and can severely affect your routine. The error message “Sorry, This Media File Doesn’t Exist” is an example that stops you from accessing files like photos and videos. It commonly arises for various reasons, such as deleted files, corrupted downloads, or storage issues. The problem can occur on Android and iOS platforms, leaving users puzzled.

Understanding the root causes behind this is essential to fixing it and ensuring a smooth experience. This guide will explore the primary reasons for the “Sorry This Media File Doesn’t Exist WhatsApp” error and provide actionable solutions.

Part 1. Why is My WhatsApp Saying “Sorry, This Media Doesn’t Exist”?

Encountering the error can be puzzling and inconvenient for many users as it disturbs their workflow. This issue manifests differently depending on the situation, making it important to identify the context to find an effective solution. Let’s explore a few scenarios that highlight how the “WhatsApp sorry this media file doesn’t exist” error appears and what it means.

1. Sending or Receiving Media Fails with the Error

A common occurrence of this issue is when users are suddenly unable to send or receive photos or videos. A Reddit user described the issue when they try to send an image, but the upload fails and displays this message. Similarly, if you receive an image or video, it stays blurred with a download arrow. When clicked, the error “Sorry, this media file doesn’t exist on your internal storage” appears.

2. GBWhatsApp Media Access Error

Users of GBWhatsApp, a modified version of the original app, often face this problem when the app cannot locate the media file in its database. One of them asked about solving the “Sorry, this file does not exist in your media” issue on Quora. It usually stems from how the clone app handles storage or missing compatibility with the official file system.

3. Transferring Media from GBWhatsApp to Official WhatsApp

Another common situation arises when users transfer media files from GBWhatsApp (Fouad mod) to the official WhatsApp folder. Even after copying the files, the app displays the error “Sorry, this media doesn’t exist on your internal storage,” according to a Quora user. This occurs because the official app fails to sync or recognize the files, likely due to differences in database formats.

Common Reasons Behind the Error

By identifying the root cause based on your situation, you can take the appropriate steps to resolve it. Following are some of the major causes why you can face the “sorry this media file appears to be missing” problem:

Lack of Storage Space: Insufficient internal storage can prevent the app from downloading or accessing media files. Without adequate space, the app struggles to load or save files properly, leading to this error.
GBWhatsApp and Other Unofficial Software: Third-party mods like GBWhatsApp often handle files differently than the official app. These apps can cause media access issues due to incompatible database structures or poorly managed file paths.
Moved or Deleted Files: If the media files are deleted, moved, or renamed outside, the app cannot locate them. This frequently happens when users use file managers to organize their data.
Corrupted or Incomplete Downloads: A poor network connection or interrupted download can result in incomplete files, causing the platform to display this error when trying to access or view the media.

Part 2. How to Fix WhatsApp “Sorry, This Media File Doesn’t Exist” Issue?

Resolving the error requires understanding the underlying cause and applying the appropriate solution. There are several effective fixes to address the problem regardless of where it stems from. Explained below are the top 6 ways you can use to resolve the “media file doesn’t exist on internal storage WhatsApp” issue.

Fix 1. Reboot Your Phone

To start troubleshooting, the first thing you should do is restart your mobile. It is an effective way to resolve the “Sorry, this media file doesn’t exist WhatsApp status” error. A reboot clears temporary glitches, refreshes the operating system, and can restore the proper functionality of apps.

This method using these steps often resolves issues related to file accessibility or software conflicts, making it an ideal first fix:

Android: Firmly press and maintain pressure on the “Power” key to access the power menu and opt for “Restart.”
iOS: Access and hold down both the “Volume Down” and “Side” buttons to approach the power slider. Then, slide it to the right side to switch off your device and use the “Side” key to turn it back on after 30 seconds.

Fix 2. Update WhatsApp to The Latest Version

Outdated versions may contain bugs or compatibility issues that trigger the “Sorry this media file appears to be missing WhatsApp” error. Hence, updating the app is essential to ensure smooth functionality and compatibility with your device.

Doing so can resolve these glitches while providing access to new features and security improvements. Follow these instructions to upgrade this social messaging app to its latest iteration:

Instructions. On your mobile, approach the Play Store or App Store and look for WhatsApp using the search bar. You can upgrade it by tapping “Update” if one is available for you to install.

Fix 3. Backup WhatsApp Data to Save Phone Storage

No free space on your mobile is a significant cause of the “media file does not exist on internal storage WhatsApp” problem. Freeing up space by backing up your chats and other data to an external platform ensures your files are safe and your device performs optimally. A specialized tool like iToolab WatsGo can be invaluable in achieving this effortlessly.

It is a versatile WhatsApp data management tool designed to make backups, transfers, and restores effortless. This software provides a reliable solution to ensure your critical chats are securely moved to the targeted device. It is particularly useful for those who frequently switch devices or encounter storage limitations. In short, its advanced features make it a one-stop solution for managing app data.

Follow these elaborate instructions carefully to securely move your essential chats and media files to your computer:

Step 1 Proceed to Launch the Software and Attach Your Phone

Download the tool from its official source and install it on your system to commence the operation. Then, link your mobile to the computer and click “WhatsApp Backup” from the “WhatsApp” tab to proceed. On the following screen, select your phone model accurately and hit the “Backup” button.

Step 2 Create the App Backup and Verify Your WhatsApp Number

For iOS users, tapping “Backup” will kickstart the process of backing up their app data to the computer. If you are an Android user, you will need to open WhatsApp on your mobile and create a “Chat Backup” via the app settings. Following that, provide the 64-bit encryption password or verify your phone number to create a backup.

Fix 4. Transfer GBWhatsApp to the Official WhatsApp

As discussed before, using third-party clone apps can also cause this vexing issue. Files stored in GBWhatsApp often fail to sync with the official app due to differences in data structure.

Using a reliable tool like iToolab WatsGo ensures a smooth and error-free transfer process, allowing you to migrate all your chats and media without data loss. Utilize the following steps to employ this solution to deal with the WhatsApp media file missing problem:

Step 1 Opt for Transfer GBWhatsApp to WhatsApp in the Tool

You can switch to the official platform effortlessly and eliminate compatibility issues by downloading iToolab WatsGo. Once installed, launch the tool and attach your mobile phone to the computer to proceed. Within the program, move to the “GBWhatsApp” tab and click “Start” under the “GBWhatsApp Transfer” to opt for “Transfer GBWhatsApp to WhatsApp.”

Step 2 Create GBWhatsApp Backup After Choosing Targeted Files

Afterward, tap “Transfer” and select the data types you want to move before hitting “Continue.” You will now be required to create a manual backup of your GBWhatsApp data on your phone by tapping “Continue.” Finally, turn off 2FA on the phone app and verify your account number to complete the transfer.

Fix 5. Clear WhatsApp Cache

Accumulated cache files can sometimes cause glitches, including the “WhatsApp media file does not exist in internal storage” error. While useful for faster performance, these temporary files can become corrupted or outdated to cause media access issues. Clearing the cache with these instructions removes them without affecting your chats or media, offering a quick and easy solution to resolve the error:

Instructions. Move to the WhatsApp icon on your mobile and long-press it to access the “App Info” from the pop-up menu. On the following screen, approach the “Storage” tab to use the “Clear Cache” option and remove these files.

Fix 6. Reinstall WhatsApp and Restore from the Backup

When no solution seems to work to remove this error, you can delete and reinstall the app. Doing so eliminates potential glitches or corrupted files that may be causing the problem. Restoring your chats and media from a recent backup ensures that no critical data is lost during the process. The following guide can help you fix the “Sorry, this media file doesn’t exist WhatsApp” issue:

For Android

Step 1 Move your WhatsApp on the phone and create a “Chat Backup” from the “Chats” tab in app settings. When done, close the app and long-press its icon to “Uninstall” it from the device.

Step 2 Now, access the Google Play Store to look for “WhatsApp” and use “Install” to get the app on your mobile. Afterward, open the app to verify your phone number and tap “Restore” to retrieve your backup from Google Drive.

For iOS

Step 1 Create a backup of your chats and app data on WhatsApp by accessing the “Chats” tab from Settings and pressing “Back Up Now.” Then, long-press the app icon to select “Remove App” and follow it with “Delete App” before hitting “Delete” to uninstall it.

Step 2 Next, launch the App Store to search for “WhatsApp” and hit “Get” to install it back on your iOS device. Finally, open the app to verify your phone number and select “Restore Chat History” when prompted.

Conclusion

In summary, the “Sorry, This Media File Appears to be Missing” error on WhatsApp can stem from various causes. Common factors include corrupted files, lack of storage, or improper data transfers. By following the solutions provided, you can resolve the issue and regain access to your media files.

Tools like iToolab WatsGo simplify complex tasks like migrating data from GBWhatsApp to WhatsApp or creating secure backups. Its versatility and ease of use make it a must-have for effortless data management of your critical chats and media files. Download iToolab WatsGo today and ensure your experience on this platform remains trouble-free and efficient.

Understanding the “Sorry This Media File Doesn’t Exist WhatsApp” Issue