The Vudu playback error may appear on certain movies when the internet is slow or keeps disconnecting.
In some instances, it means that you need to update Vudu. Sometimes, it may mean that your streaming service has accumulated too much cache, which makes it hard to stream due to limited memory.
Here, you’ll find all the information you need to know about this playback error. We will discuss the cause of the error, fixes, and when to contact support.
Causes of Vudu playback error on certain movies
Here are possible explanations why you have errors on particular films:
1. Slow internet speeds
Movies need a lot of data to stream smoothly. If your internet isn’t fast enough, videos on Vudu will start and then stop after a few seconds before displaying an error.
Here’s the recommended internet speed for streaming videos on Vudu:
- Standard Definition (SD): 1 Mbps to 2 Mbps
- High Definition X-tra (HDX): 4.5 Mbps to 9 Mbps
- Ultra High Definition (UHD): 11 Mbps and higher
2. Picking HDX quality
Some users report getting playback errors when they set their video quality to HDX on the Vudu app.
This has nothing to do with your internet connection but simply a malfunctioning app. You have no option but to wait until Vudu fixes the issue.
3. Using an old device
Maybe your TV, iPhone, tablet, or game console is old. If so, it might not work well with Vudu anymore.
Older devices can have trouble with new movie versions uploaded on the platform.
3. Vudu server problems
If your Vudu encountered problems during the playback, it could even not be your fault. The platform’s servers could be having issues. When that happens,
4. The app needs updates
Movie apps get updated with new fixes and features. Movies might not play right if your app or device is outdated.
5. Cache build-up
Over time, Vudu and other apps clutter up your device with cached data. Once there’s way too much-stored junk, so Vudu can’t work properly.
This will lead to your TV freezing and loading slowly.
6. Messed up movie files
In some rare cases, the actual movie file from Vudu could be broken or messed up somehow.
If the file is corrupted, it might not play or have errors. But this doesn’t happen much, as Vudu usually has good-quality movies.
How to fix the Vudu playback error
Here is how you can fix the Vudu playback error on TV, Android, iPhone, and any other gadget:
1. Check your internet connection
First, run an internet speed test to see how fast your connection is. For speed test:
- Use your browser to go to any speed test site like fast.com or speedtest.net
- Ensure no other devices are connected to the network so they do not consume your bandwidth.
- Test the speed three times to get the average.
- If the average is too slow, turn the router off. Unplug it from the socket and wait for a few seconds. Plug it back in.
No improvement? Call your internet provider for assistance or upgrade to the next plan.
2. Restart your TV
A quick restart can clear out minor software glitches.
Simply hold the power button and select “restart” from the options.
3. Update Vudu App
- Open the app store on smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku. Scroll to check for a new version of Vudu and install it.
- Check the Google Play Store for Android gadgets. For iPhones and iPads, use the App Store. Update to the newest Vudu release.
Tip: Consider enabling auto updates so this is not an issue in the future.
4. Clear out cached junk
- On smart TVs, Fire Sticks, and streaming boxes, look in the settings for an option to clear cache and data for only the Vudu app.
- For Android users, go to Settings > Apps > Vudu > Storage, then clear the cache and data.
- For iPhones/iPads, go to Settings > General > Storage. Find Vudu, then offload and reinstall the app to fix the Vudu playback error on the iPhone due to cache.
- If you have apps that clear cache and temporary files, you can use them to save you time. They will clear the cache for all the apps.
5. Try the web instead of the app
All devices that have the Vudu app also have a browser. So, if this misbehaves, try the browser instead.
Just go to vudu.com and log into your account from there. You will be able to stream movies directly from the website instead of the glitchy app.
6. Disable HDX streams
Some devices may not handle HDX formats well with the Vudu app. So, to get all movies playing without errors, you need to disable it. Use these steps:
- Go to the Vudu app settings.
- Find the playback option.
- Select any other preferred video quality other than HDX. When choosing video quality, keep in mind your internet speeds.
7. Get a modern device
Vudu periodically stops supporting super outdated smartphones, tablets, TVs, etc., when they get too old.
Using a newer device ensures you have the processing power and latest software to run Vudu without issues.
8. Contact Vudu support
Despite your best troubleshooting efforts, sometimes the issue ends up being on Vudu’s side. When that happens:
- Visit the Vudu contact page
- Fill in the contact form with your details and issue
- Explain that Vudu does not play movies, and what playback error you’re seeing, the movie title, your device type, and all the steps you’ve tried.
- Tap Submit to get in touch with their customer support staff.
- They will investigate why Vudu does not play movies, fix any bugs, and re-upload corrupted files.
You could also use their live support feature. Click on the chat icon floating at the bottom right side of the website.