Phone camera not working or black? 9 fixes for iPhone and Android
A black camera screen is usually an app glitch. Switching between front and back cameras tells you if a lens has failed.
The fix
9 fixes, in order
- 1
Close and reopen the camera app.
- 2
Switch between front and back cameras.
- 3
Clean the lens and take off the case.
- 4
Restart the phone.
- 5
Free up storage.
Leave a few gigabytes free for photos and video.
- 6
Check camera permission for the app you are using.
- 7
Clear the Camera app cache on Android.
Settings › Apps › Camera › Storage › Clear cache.
- 8
Update iOS or Android.
- 9
Book a repair if one lens stays black.
Frequently asked questions
Why does only the front or back camera work?
If one lens works and the other stays black after a restart, that camera module is likely damaged and needs repair.
Why does the camera work in the Camera app but not WhatsApp?
That app does not have camera permission. Turn it on in the phone’s privacy or app settings.
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