How to fix a Mac webcam that is not working

Camera and calls Published 4 November 2026

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If your Mac camera shows a black screen or no picture, work through these steps from Apple’s article on a built in camera that is not working: update your software, check Screen Time, allow the app in Privacy and Security, then restart. If the green light flashes, contact Apple.

1. Update your software

Install the latest macOS and app updates. Apple lists this as the first step. Quit your call app and open it again afterwards.

2. Check Screen Time

Apple’s article says that if you use Screen Time, camera access can be blocked there. Open the Apple menu, go to System Settings and click Screen Time. Under Content & Privacy, open App Restrictions (or Apps) and confirm that Camera is checked. Under App Limits, make sure any app you need for the camera is off or not selected.

3. Allow the app

Open System Settings, click Privacy & Security and select Camera. Turn on every app that needs the camera. Apple says you may need to quit and reopen an app for the change to take effect. The details are in allowing camera access for an app.

4. Restart

On an Apple silicon Mac, restart the computer. On an Intel based Mac, Apple tells you to reset the SMC and links to its instructions.

5. Try another app

Photo Booth and FaceTime come with your Mac and need no permission. If the camera works there but not in your call app, the cause is the call app. Check its video settings for the selected camera, and see how to test your Mac camera.

6. Get help

If the camera still does not work, or the green light beside it flashes, contact Apple for service.

Check a second source

Make sure no other app has the camera. The green dot and Control Center show it, as this tip explains.

A workaround

If the built in camera cannot be repaired right away, an iPhone can act as your Mac’s webcam. See using an iPhone as a webcam.

Versions

The Apple article names macOS Catalina or later for the Screen Time step, macOS Mojave or later for the camera permissions step, and splits the restart step by Apple silicon and Intel. Labels differ between System Settings and older System Preferences.

NotchStar

If you are using NotchStar’s Mirror tool and see nothing, the camera cause is the same as any other app. It uses your Mac’s default camera, so a wrong default can also leave the preview empty.

Quick answers.

My camera light flashes green. What does that mean?

Apple's article says that if the camera still does not work or the indicator light next to it flashes green, you should contact Apple for service.

Link to this answer

Keep reading.

A quick mirror before every call: Check how you look before a call with a live, mirrored camera preview in the notch. The camera runs only while the Mirror tab is open.
How to allow camera access for an app on a Mac: Open System Settings, Privacy and Security, Camera, then switch the app on. Which apps are always allowed, and what to do if an app is not in the list.
How to test your Mac camera: Open Photo Booth or QuickTime Player to see if your Mac camera works. Look for the green light, pick the right camera, and check app permissions.
Check your Mac camera before a video call: Preview your camera, check permissions and confirm the camera selected in your meeting app. Use a mirror preview without mistaking it for a recording test.
How to use your iPhone as a webcam on a Mac: Mount an iPhone near your Mac, open FaceTime or a call app and choose the iPhone from the video menu. Requirements and fixes from Apple.

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