Symptoms
- Tapping the camera icon does nothing or briefly flashes then closes
- Camera app shows a blank or black screen right after opening
- Other apps open normally
- Issue happens from the lock screen shortcut too
Likely causes
- CommonApp crashed or froze due to a temporary software glitchA recent background process can conflict with the camera app trying to start.
- CommonLow storage spaceThe camera app may need free space for buffers and won't open below a certain threshold.
- CommonOutdated app or operating systemBugs are often fixed in updates; an older version may fail to launch reliably.
- PossibleAnother app is holding the camera hardwareA video call or a third-party camera app still running can block access.
What to do
- Force close the camera app fully and reopen it.
- Restart the phone to clear background processes holding the camera.
- Free up storage by removing unused apps, photos, or videos.
- Update the phone's operating system and the camera app if it's a separate app.
- Close any other app that might be using the camera, like a video call app running in the background.
- Check camera permissions in settings to make sure the app is allowed to use the camera.
When to call a pro
See a repair shop if the camera app still won't open after a restart, freeing storage, and updating software.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.