Android camera not working? Here's how you can try to fix it (2024)

QUICK ANSWER

If your Android camera isn't working, you can try various troubleshooting tips. These include restarting the phone, charging the device, ensuring it's not too hot, updating the app, checking app permissions, and more. Keep reading for other solutions.

JUMP TO KEY SECTIONS

• Restart the phone
• Make sure your phone is charged
• Is your phone hot?
• Force close the app
• Clear the camera's cache memory
• Make sure you have enough storage space
• Update your device
• Check the app permissions
• The last resort: factory data reset

Restart the phone

A simple reboot can work wonders. I find that this fixes most common issues and bugs about 90% of the time. It’s also a simple solution, so you should at least try it. We have guides on restarting Android phones, as well as restarting Samsung phones, if you need some help.

Is your phone hot?

Likewise, many manufacturers limit the camera when the phone is too hot. An overheated device can be dangerous for internal components. Since the camera uses plenty of resources, it will likely further increase the temperatures. Try to let the phone cool down for a bit. You can do this by unplugging it and letting it rest in a cool area, or a place with good airflow.

Force close the app

If your Android camera is still not working, it’s time to bring out the bigger guns. Let’s start by closing the app completely.

How to force close an app on Android:

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Go into Apps.
3. Tap on See all apps.
4. Find and select the Camera app.
5. Hit Force stop.
6. Tap on OK.

Clear the camera’s cache memory

You can also clear the camera’s app cache. Cache files can get corrupted and cause issues with time. It’s good to clear it now and then. We have a dedicated guide on clearing cache on Android. Follow the steps and clear the cache on the Camera app.

Make sure you have enough storage space

Naturally, the camera won’t have a place to put those gorgeous photos in if your storage space is too full. We have a complete guide on how to free up storage space, if you need some storage-saving tips.

You can follow our guide to learn how to update your Android apps. Additionally, here’s how to update your Android phone to the latest software.

Check the app permissions

App permissions let you control what each application can access. You may have accidentally revoked the Camera app access to the camera. We have a complete guide on app permissions. Follow the guide to allow camera access to the Camera app.

The last resort: factory data reset

A factory data reset will wipe your phone clean and bring it back to factory settings. Just make sure to backup any important files before you do this, as everything in your phone will be gone after a factory reset.

How to factory reset an Android phone:

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Go into System.
3. Hit Reset options.
4. Select Erase all data (factory reset).
5. Tap on Erase all data.
6. Enter your PIN.
7. Confirm by selecting Erase all data again.

Now, if none of these tips work, there’s not much we can do to help. It might be best to reach out to your phone’s manufacturer or carrier for help. You could try to make a warranty claim.

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