iPhone 16 camera not working in any apps or in Camera.

Question

Level 1

26 points

iPhone 16 camera not working in any apps or in Camera.

My iPhone 16's, (iOS 26.2.1) camera isn't working in Messenger, on its own in Camera or for scanning in Notes.

I get a totally black screen in Messenger and the Notes scanner, but an opaque/foggy screen in Camera.

This happened last October, and I recall fixing it following the instructions given here. But for the life of me, I can't remember how.

I'm wondering if, as this is the second time it's occurred, there's a bigger problem or systemic issue. My iPhone isn't that old. I bought it brand new just after the iPhone 16 was released in November 2024.

Do I need to take it into the Genius Bar for a repair? I hope not, as it's my business phone as well as a personal device.

Thanks

iPhone 16, iOS 26

Posted on Feb 3, 2026 5:50 PM

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Answer 1

Katana-San

Level 10

81,715 points

Feb 3, 2026 5:59 PM in response to JEM7955

Hello~ Click on the link below and work through the information found there. Have you restarted?

If the camera or flash on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch isn't working - Apple Support

If nothing there helps or this continues …then yes …you may need to take it in for a checkup…

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Find Locations

Take care.

~Katana-San~

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Answer 2

JEM7955 Author

Level 1

26 points

Feb 3, 2026 6:13 PM in response to JEM7955

THanks Katana-SAn, Yes, I've just shut down and restarted. Was just checking when your reply came in. It seems that the camera is working nicely now as a standalone app and also in Messenger, although I can't see how to scan in Notes. But that will just take a bit of fiddling; I had it this morning, even though it didn't work.

But if it happens again, yes, I'll make an appointment with the Genius Bar and take it in. They're always so good and helpful.

By the way, our family is full on Apple. My husband and I have been Apple Users forever...about 30+ years or so, starting with an Apple LC II, before moving on to colour with the PowerMac, eventually to the revolutionary iMacs, a 27" desktop Mac, right up to today with PowerBooks. My husband also bought one of the first iPhones that made its way to Australia. iPhone 3!! And of course, Apple watches. Our adult sons are also Apple devotees. It's great that we're no longer outliers and being teased for having Apple Mac computers that weren't compatible with anything Microsoft.

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