If Call of Duty Mobile (CODM) is not loading and gets stuck on “Checking updates”, don’t worry—you’re not the only one. Many players face this problem, and it usually happens right when you’re ready to start a match. The good thing is that this issue can be fixed, and most solutions are very simple.
In this guide, I’ll explain easy and clear steps to help you solve the problem. No technical terms, no confusion—just simple methods that you can follow without any trouble.
Let’s get started!
Why CODM Gets Stuck and Why It’s Frustrating
Call of Duty: Mobile is meant to be fast and smooth, so it’s irritating when the game gets stuck on the “Checking Updates” screen. Many players face this problem, and it usually happens because the game cannot connect properly to the server, some files are outdated, or the device is having a small issue.
The good thing is that these problems are not serious. Most of the time, you can fix them yourself within a few minutes. Just a few basic steps can help the game load normally again.
Understanding the Common Loading Problem
The “Checking Updates” screen appears when CODM is trying to connect to its servers and make sure your game is ready to run. During this process, the game checks your version, looks for missing files, and confirms that everything is synced correctly. If any of these steps fail, even for a moment, the game can freeze or get stuck on that screen. This usually isn’t a big technical issue—most of the time, it happens because of small problems like an unstable internet connection or a blocked server request.
What Actually Happens Behind the “Checking Updates” Screen
Even though the screen looks simple, CODM does many tasks in the background. It verifies your login token, checks the update server for new patches, compares your phone’s game files with the latest version, and loads important assets. If one of these checks fails—or if your device has low storage or limited permissions—the loading process stops. Knowing this makes it clear why basic fixes like clearing the cache or resetting DNS often solve the problem quickly.
Why CODM Gets Stuck on “Checking Updates”
CODM can freeze on the update screen for many different reasons. It is not caused by just one problem. Several things inside your phone and the game need to work smoothly for the update to load properly.
Server Problems
CODM depends on its servers to load updates. If the servers are busy, under maintenance, or facing issues in your region, the game may not receive the required response. This can make it stuck on the “Checking Updates” screen.
Damaged or Missing Game Files
Sometimes game files get damaged during installation or after an update. Even a small broken file can stop the game from loading properly. CODM will not move forward if any important file is missing or corrupted.
Device or Internet Issues
If your phone has low storage, low RAM, or if your internet connection is weak, the game may struggle to load files. Even a small network drop can stop the update check and cause the screen to freeze.
Background Restrictions on Your Phone
Battery saver, data saver, app blockers, or phone optimization settings may limit CODM’s background data. When this happens, the game cannot connect properly and gets stuck on the update screen.
First Steps Before Troubleshooting
Before trying advanced fixes, start with a few basic steps. These simple actions often solve the CODM loading issue for many players.
Restart the Game Properly
Close CODM completely instead of just minimizing it. Make sure it’s removed from your recent apps so the game can refresh its memory. After that, restarting your device helps even more because it clears temporary errors and resets system resources.
Why These Simple Fixes Help
Most loading problems happen because of small, temporary bugs. When you restart the game or your device, it clears background tasks and removes stuck processes that might stop CODM from loading properly or connecting to its servers.
Check Your Internet Connection Quickly
Even a good internet connection can have small drops. If CODM loses connection while checking for updates, it might freeze or stop loading. Doing a quick speed test or switching to another network can help you confirm if the issue is with your connection.
Network-Related Solutions
Many CODM loading problems happen because of weak or unstable internet. Fixing your network connection often solves the error quickly.
Keep Your Internet Stable
CODM needs a steady connection. Speed is not everything. A stable 4G network can work better than an unstable 5G network. The goal is consistent connectivity.
Try Switching Between Wi-Fi and Mobile Data
Sometimes the game gets stuck because your Wi-Fi blocks certain servers. Switching to mobile data forces the game to reconnect and often fixes the “Checking Updates” problem instantly.
Restart Your Router or Modem
If your router has been running for many days, it may create connection delays. Restarting it removes temporary issues and refreshes the network.
Turn Off VPN, Proxy, or Firewall
Using a VPN might slow down your connection or block CODM’s update servers. Turning off your VPN or proxy usually helps the game load properly.
Use a Faster DNS
DNS helps your device connect to CODM servers. A faster DNS can fix slow or failed update checks.
Google DNS
8.8.8.8
8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS
1.1.1.1
1.0.0.1
Why DNS Makes a Difference
DNS works like a phonebook for websites. If your current DNS is slow or blocks CODM links, the game may stay stuck on the update screen. Using Google or Cloudflare DNS improves speed and helps CODM connect without issues.
Game File and App Fixes
If network fixes don’t solve the problem, the issue may be caused by broken game files or storage errors inside the app.
Clear CODM Cache and Temporary Files
On Android, clearing the cache removes temporary files that may cause the game to slow down or get stuck. This process does not delete your game progress or installed maps. It only refreshes the app’s temporary data so the game can run smoothly again.
Reinstall the Game Without Losing Your Data
If clearing the cache doesn’t fix the issue, reinstalling the game can help. A fresh installation replaces damaged or missing files. You will not lose your progress because CODM saves your account online. Just log in with the same account (Activision, Facebook, or your saved guest account).
Make Sure the Game Is Fully Updated
Sometimes the game update doesn’t download properly. Even if it shows “installed,” some parts of the update may be missing. This can cause the update screen to freeze or fail to load.
Fixing Damaged Installation Files
If your device shuts down during an update, or if there wasn’t enough storage space while downloading, some game files may not install correctly. Reinstalling the game from the Play Store or App Store ensures all files are complete and error-free.
Server Issues You Cannot Fix Yourself
Sometimes the problem is not on your phone or internet. It happens from the game’s side, and you cannot control it.
Scheduled Maintenance
CODM often does maintenance before new updates or events. During this time, the servers may go offline for a while. Because of this, the game may get stuck on the update screen.
Unexpected Server Outages
At times, too many players join at once or a technical issue happens. When this occurs, CODM’s servers may stop working for some time. No matter what you try on your device, the game won’t load until the servers are back.
How to Check If Servers Are Down
You can check the server status through:
- CODM’s official social media pages
- Gaming community forums
- Popular server-status websites
If the servers are down, you only need to wait until CODM fixes the issue.
Easy Fixes for CODM Loading Problems
Reset App Permissions or Network Settings
Sometimes your device may block CODM from accessing important files. Resetting app permissions or network settings gives the game fresh access without deleting your data.
Turn Off Battery Saver or Data Saver
Battery Saver or Data Saver modes can limit background activity. This may stop CODM from loading updates properly. Turning these modes off while playing can fix the issue.
Check Device Restrictions
Some phones have system settings that automatically limit certain apps. Turning off these restrictions helps CODM load smoothly.
Fixes for Android Users
Clear the System Cache Partition
This removes temporary system files that might cause loading problems. It is safe and does not delete personal data.
Reset App Preferences
This brings all permissions and settings back to default. It also removes hidden restrictions that may be blocking CODM.
Remove Unnecessary Booster Apps
Many “game booster” apps claim to improve performance but can block important CODM services. Removing them can stop freezing and loading issues.
Fixes for iOS Users
Offload the App (Without Losing Data)
Offloading removes the app but keeps your game data safe. Reinstalling after offloading gives CODM a fresh start without affecting your account.
Fix iCloud or Storage Issues
If your device or iCloud storage is full, CODM may not load updates. Freeing up a few gigabytes usually solves this problem.
Check iOS Privacy Settings
Some privacy settings may block CODM from accessing required files. Allowing the right permissions can fix the loading issue.
Final Thoughts – Enjoy a Smooth CODM Experience
When CODM gets stuck on the “Checking Updates” screen, it can feel frustrating, but the cause is usually something small like poor internet, damaged cache files, or temporary server issues. The good news is that these problems can be fixed easily.
By trying the solutions mentioned in this guide, you can quickly get the game running again. No matter if the issue is with your network, your device, or the game servers, there is always a simple way to solve it.
Once everything is working properly, you can get back into the game and enjoy Call of Duty: Mobile without any interruptions.