When your phone camera stops working, shows a black screen, or crashes immediately after opening, it can be very frustrating—especially when you need to capture something important. This issue is common on Android phones and is often caused by software or app conflicts rather than hardware damage.
I personally faced this issue when my phone camera suddenly showed a black screen after a system update. Before assuming the camera was damaged, I tried a few practical fixes that restored the camera without visiting a service center.
In this article, I’ll explain why phone cameras stop working and share fixes that actually work.
How Camera Problems Usually Appear
Camera issues may show up as:
- Camera app opens but screen stays black
- Camera app crashes immediately
- Camera works in some apps but not others
- “Camera failed” or similar error messages
- Camera freezes while switching modes
Each symptom helps identify the cause.
Common Reasons Phone Camera Stops Working
1. Camera App Cache or Data Corruption
Corrupted temporary files can prevent the camera from loading.
2. Another App Using the Camera
Apps like video calling or social media may lock camera access.
3. Permission Issues
Camera permission may be disabled accidentally.
4. Software Bugs After Updates
Updates can temporarily break camera compatibility.
5. Low Storage Space
Camera needs free space to save photos and videos.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Restart the Phone
This was the first fix that worked for me.
Restarting:
- Closes background apps using the camera
- Resets camera services
- Clears temporary glitches
Always try this first.
Method 2: Clear Camera App Cache
This removes corrupted temporary files.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Open Camera
- Tap Storage
- Clear Cache (not data)
- Restart phone
This often fixes black screen issues.
Method 3: Check Camera Permissions
Camera won’t work without permission.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Apps → Camera
- Tap Permissions
- Allow Camera, Storage, and Microphone
Incorrect permissions block camera access.
Method 4: Close Other Apps Using Camera
Only one app can use the camera at a time.
What to do:
- Close video call apps
- Close social media apps
- Restart phone if unsure
This frees camera access.
Method 5: Free Up Storage Space
Low storage can stop the camera.
Recommended:
- Keep at least 1–2 GB free space
- Delete unused files
- Clear app cache
Camera starts working once space is available.
Method 6: Update or Roll Back Camera App
Updates may fix or introduce bugs.
- Update Camera app (if possible)
- Install system updates
- Restart phone
Bug-fix updates often solve camera crashes.
Method 7: Test Camera in Safe Mode
Safe mode disables third-party apps.
What this tells you:
- If camera works in safe mode, an app is causing conflict
- Uninstall recently installed apps
This helps isolate the problem.
When It’s a Hardware Issue
Camera repair may be needed if:
- Camera doesn’t work even in safe mode
- Phone was dropped or exposed to water
- Camera shows physical damage
- Camera fails after factory reset
In such cases, professional repair is required.
What You Should Avoid
- Installing unknown camera apps
- Clearing camera data repeatedly
- Using fake camera fix apps
- Ignoring low storage warnings
These can worsen the issue.
FAQs
Why does camera show black screen?
Usually due to cache corruption or app conflict.
Can software updates break camera?
Yes, temporarily in some cases.
Does factory reset fix camera issues?
Only if the issue is software-related.
Is camera repair expensive?
Depends on phone model and damage.
Final Thoughts
If your phone camera is not working or shows a black screen, the issue is often caused by cache corruption, permissions, or app conflicts—not immediate hardware failure.
From my experience, clearing the camera cache and restarting the phone fixed the issue instantly. Always try software fixes before visiting a service center
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.