iPhone 14 camera app freezes and won't take photos with back camera

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iPhone 14 camera app freezes and won't take photos with back camera

I just purchased a used iphone 14 from Amazon and the camera app is not working. I'm running ios 27. I'm seeing the following behavior:

- The camera app randomly freezes.
- It does not take pictures using the back camera. I click the picture button and it does not save it in photos.
- It does take videos using the back camera.
- It does take selfies using the front camera.
- It does take pictures using the back camera on another camera app (Modus).

I have tried the following to troubleshoot it:

- Restarted the phone.
- Updated to the latest OS (27.0.1).
- Took pictures on the Modus app which works fine.
- Reset all settings on the iPhone

Anything else I can try?

Could this be a bug is ios 27?

Should I just return it?

Posted on Oct 4, 2026 7:44 AM

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Answer 1

Oct 5, 2026 12:19 AM in response to Gentile

Welcome and thank you for reaching out. 🤗

There appears to be a problem with the camera and/or related sensors. Only a certified Apple technician can determine the cause and offer a complete solution.

Therefore, I recommend service.

Service Checklist:

Service Appointment:

Get started with camera service.

Contact Information:

United States: 1-800-APLCARE.
Contact Support.

Additional Support:

Good luck! 👋🏼😉

Smiliñ 😎 Brian | Community Volunteer

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Answer 2

Oct 4, 2026 1:59 PM in response to Gentile

Well, the key word is “used”. You have no idea how it was used before you got it. When you turned it on did it say “hello” in multiple languages, then go through an initial setup sequence? If not, the phone was not properly reset by the previous owner as described here: What to do before selling or giving away your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, so you should probably return it.

The most basic step for diagnosis:

Go to Settings/Battery/Battery Health. Read what it says about health, if it doesn’t say Normal you need a new battery. Also note the Maximum Capacity; if it is below 80% that also indicates a failing battery.

Here is guidance on battery replacement: iPhone Battery Replacement - Official Apple Support

Post back the results, if it isn’t the battery there are other things to check.

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