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built in camera not working

The camera will not work on any app or site on this laptop

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 13.5

Posted on Sep 10, 2023 7:47 PM

Reply
1 reply

Sep 11, 2023 8:29 AM in response to daefrazier

If the camera on your Mac laptop is not working with any app or website, you can follow these troubleshooting steps to try and resolve the issue:


1. **Check Physical Camera**: Ensure that there's no physical blockage on your camera lens. Some Mac laptops have a small camera indicator light; check if it's on or off when you attempt to use the camera.


2. **Restart Your Mac**: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve hardware and software issues. Restart your Mac and check if the camera works afterward.


3. **Check Camera Permissions**:

- Go to "System Preferences" > "Security & Privacy" > "Privacy" > "Camera."

- Make sure the apps you want to use with the camera are listed and checked. If they aren't, check the boxes next to them.


4. **Update macOS**:

- Ensure that your macOS is up to date. Sometimes, system updates include fixes for hardware-related issues. Go to "System Preferences" > "Software Update" to check for updates.


5. **Reset NVRAM/PRAM**:

- Shut down your Mac.

- Turn it on and immediately press and hold the Option, Command, P, and R keys simultaneously.

- Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds, and your Mac will restart.

- Release the keys, and your Mac's NVRAM/PRAM will be reset. This can sometimes resolve hardware issues.


6. **Check for Third-Party Software Conflicts**:

- Sometimes, third-party applications or software can interfere with your camera. Try closing all unnecessary apps and see if the camera works with a built-in app like FaceTime or Photo Booth.


7. **Safe Mode**:

- Boot your Mac in Safe Mode by restarting it and holding the Shift key until the Apple logo appears. Safe Mode disables third-party extensions and may help identify if a third-party app is causing the issue.


8. **Create a Test User Account**:

- Create a new user account on your Mac and see if the camera works in that account. If it does, the problem may be related to your user profile. If not, it's likely a system-wide issue.


9. **Reset SMC (System Management Controller)**:

- On MacBook models with a non-removable battery: Shut down your Mac, connect the power adapter, and then press and hold Shift, Control, Option, and the power button for 10 seconds. Release the keys, then press the power button again to turn on your Mac.

- On MacBook models with a removable battery: Shut down your Mac, remove the battery, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds, reinsert the battery, and turn on your Mac.


10. **Contact Apple Support**: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it's possible that there is a hardware problem with your Mac's camera. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider for further assistance and potential repairs.


By following these steps, you should be able to identify and potentially resolve the issue with your Mac laptop's camera not working with any app or site.

built in camera not working

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