How Do I Fix My Pandora from Buffering?

Even though Pandora has great functionality, buffering is a problem that plenty of users struggle with. Fortunately, it is possible to fix the problem and enjoy uninterrupted service. Here's some helpful tips to assist you.

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Nov 4, 2019

Pandora is a popular internet radio service available in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. You may use Pandora services on your computer, iOS, Android, or any other platform. Even though Pandora has great functionality, buffering is a problem that plenty of users struggle with. Fortunately, it is possible to fix the problem and enjoy uninterrupted service. The following tips may help you.

1. Check Your Connection

A poor connection is the most common cause of buffering. You should check your connection before seeking any other solutions. Like any other media streaming service, Pandora requires you to have a stable and active internet connection. Try opening a few websites to test the speed of your connection. If it is slow or unstable, power down your phone and take the battery out. Wait a few minutes and put it back in before turning the phone back on. This may fix your problem.

2. Change Pandora's Quality Mode

The Pandora app has two quality options; normal and high. Switching them may solve the problem. Your mobile device receives different rates depending on its capability and your network. Changing the quality mode on the app can make a big difference. On your menu icon, go to the option 'Settings' and then 'Advanced.' Check the box that says 'Higher Audio Quality' under 'Cell Network audio quality.'

3. Pause It

Pausing the music you are streaming helps to create a bigger buffer. This will give your device more time to download more of the music. You will then be able to watch it for a longer time with no breaks.

4. Clear Internet Caches

Open the browser where you play Pandora and click on the option 'Tools.' Click on 'Internet Options' when the context menu appears. A list of settings will be displayed. Click on the tab 'Privacy' or 'Browsing History' and Then 'Delete.' Click on the checkmark next to the option 'Empty the cache.' You may also click on 'Cache' and then 'Delete.' Once you are done, click 'Ok.' Log back into your account and continue streaming.

5. Check Your Anti-Virus Programs

If you have an anti-virus program installed on your device, double click its icon on the desktop. Open the official website of Pandora on your browser with the anti-virus window still open. If it appears to be blocking Pandora, that may be a problem. Click on the option 'Always Allow.' This will give Pandora permission to access your computer and save music files without buffering.

6. Uninstall and Reinstall the App

If everything else fails, try uninstalling the Pandora app and reinstalling it. For Android devices, go to the 'Settings' option of the device and find the Pandora app. Click 'Uninstall.' You may also uninstall the app within the Google Play Store. Once the process is complete, you may download it again.

For iOS devices, you may delete the app in iTunes on your computer or directly from your phone. To delete the app in iTunes, click 'Apps' in the source list and then tap on the app icon. Choose 'Edit' and then 'Delete.'

If you need help with your Pandora service, you may seek support from the support team. The best way to speak with a representative is over the phone. You will be connected directly with a representative in a few minutes.

Another way to speak support is on Twitter. Write to them with the details of your problem and a representative will get back to you in a few minutes. Pandora's help forum has plenty of targeted tips and suggestions that may help you. You should try getting help from the help forum before contacting the support team.

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.

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