Some X (formerly Twitter) users are unable to watch videos on the app due to a ‘Playback error’ that prevents the media from loading. The issue seems to have popped up roughly a couple of weeks ago and has slowly become more widespread.
While there are several reports about the issue from Google Pixel users, the problem isn’t limited to only Pixel devices. Matter of fact, I’ve been troubled by the same error on an Infinix GT 20 Pro while I didn’t encounter the bug on the Pixel 8 or Pixel 7a. So it’s safe to assume that the bug is popping up randomly. Here’s a screenshot for reference:
As you can see from the screenshot above, the video just doesn’t play. Instead, you just see a Playback error message. The issue doesn’t get resolved by quitting the app, changing the network, or even restarting the phone.
However, there might be a potential solution that you can try out. Simply clear the cache and storage for the X app on your Android device and try again. This did the trick on my device in the first try itself. So I’d suggest giving it a shot to see if it restores video playback. If you’re not familiar with the process, you can check out this guide on how to do so.
You could also check for an update for X on the Play Store and install it if available. If none of the suggestions help, you could try using a browser to scroll through your X feed until the issue is resolved.
Dwayne Cubbins
206 Posts
For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.
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