How to Fix WhatsApp Camera Not Working on Android

Over the years, WhatsApp has grown from a simple messaging app into one of the most popular communication platforms on Android. It allows users to make voice and video calls, send photos, create groups, and share statuses. However, despite its reliability, some users may encounter issues, such as the camera not working. If you’re facing this issue, here are several ways to fix it.

1. Restart Your Android Device
If you haven’t restarted your device recently, it’s a good idea to do so. Restarting can clear the RAM and refresh the app’s processes, which might fix the camera issue.

– Restarting the phone will reload WhatsApp and allocate fresh memory to it, which might resolve the problem before trying other methods.

2. Check Your Phone’s Camera
If restarting doesn’t work, check if your phone’s camera is functioning properly.

– Open the default camera app on your device and take a few photos or videos. If the camera doesn’t work, the problem is likely hardware-related, and you may need to take your phone to a service center.

3. Verify Camera Permissions for WhatsApp
Ensure that WhatsApp has the necessary camera permissions to function.

1. Long-press the WhatsApp app icon and select App Info.
2. Go to Permissions.
3. Tap on Camera and make sure it’s set to Allow only while using the app.

4. Close Other Apps Using the Camera
Certain apps might be using your camera in the background, preventing WhatsApp from accessing it. Android 12 and later versions display a green dot in the status bar if an app is using the camera.

– If you see the green dot, check and close any suspicious apps using the camera.

5. Update WhatsApp
WhatsApp frequently releases updates that fix bugs and other issues. If you’re having problems with the camera, check if an update is available.

– Head to the Google Play Store, search for WhatsApp, and tap Update if an update is available.

6. Force Stop WhatsApp
If the camera still doesn’t work, force-stopping the app might help.

1. Open Settings and go to Apps.
2. Scroll to find WhatsApp, and tap on it.
3. Tap Force Stop and then restart the app.

7. Leave the WhatsApp Beta Program
If you are part of the WhatsApp Beta program, you may be experiencing bugs related to experimental features. Leaving the program might resolve the issue.

1. Open Google Play Store and search for WhatsApp.
2. Scroll to the You’re a beta tester section and tap Leave.
3. Confirm by tapping Leave again.

8. Clear WhatsApp’s Cache and Data
Corrupt cache and data files can sometimes cause WhatsApp to malfunction. Clearing them might help.

1. Open Settings and go to Apps.
2. Find and tap WhatsApp.
3. Tap Storage Usage, then tap Clear Data and Clear Cache.

– Note: Clearing data will require you to verify your WhatsApp account again.

9. Reinstall WhatsApp
If none of the above methods work, try reinstalling the app.

1. Long-press the WhatsApp icon and select Uninstall.
2. Open the Google Play Store, search for WhatsApp, and tap Install.

By following these steps, you should be able to fix the WhatsApp camera not working issue on your Android device. If the problem persists, it might be a deeper hardware or software issue that requires professional help. Learn More