How to Fix iPhone Camera Not Working

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Force close and restart the Camera app

   Double-tap the home button or swipe up from the bottom and pause on iPhone X or later. Swipe up on the Camera app to close it. Wait 10 seconds, then open Camera again from the home screen.

   Note: If the app switcher shows multiple camera-related apps like Instagram or Snapchat, close all of them to prevent conflicts.
2. 1 min

   Check for camera restrictions

   Open Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps. Ensure Camera is toggled on. If Screen Time is disabled, skip this step. Exit Settings and test the camera.

3. 2 min

   Restart your iPhone

   Press and hold the side button with either volume button until the power off slider appears. Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone. After 30 seconds, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.

   Note: For iPhone 6s and earlier, hold the top button instead of the side button.
4. 5 min

   Update iOS to the latest version

   Connect to Wi-Fi and go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, tap Download and Install. Enter your passcode when prompted and wait for the installation to complete.

   Note: Back up your iPhone before updating to prevent data loss if something goes wrong during installation.
5. 3 min

   Reset all settings

   Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. Enter your passcode and confirm the reset. This preserves your data but resets Wi-Fi passwords, wallpapers, and accessibility settings.

   Note: Write down your Wi-Fi passwords before resetting since you'll need to re-enter them.
6. 2 min

   Test with a different camera app

   Download a third-party camera app from the App Store or use FaceTime to test the front camera. If other apps work but the default Camera app doesn't, delete and reinstall the Camera app won't work since it's built-in, so contact Apple Support.

   Note: Try both front and rear cameras in different apps to isolate whether the issue is hardware or software-related.
7. 1 min

   Check for physical damage

   Inspect the camera lens for cracks, dirt, or condensation. Clean the lens gently with a microfiber cloth. Remove any case or screen protector that might obstruct the camera. If you see internal damage or the lens is cracked, the camera needs professional repair.

   Note: Condensation inside the camera lens indicates water damage and requires immediate professional attention to prevent further damage.