Quick Answers
There are a few common reasons why your camera may not be working for Messenger video calls:
- Camera permissions – Make sure Messenger has permission to access your camera in your device settings.
- Outdated app – Update to the latest version of the Messenger app.
- Disabled camera – Check if your camera is enabled and not blocked in your device settings.
- Bad network connection – A poor internet connection can cause camera issues on video calls.
- Device compatibility – Older devices may not support Messenger video calling features.
Check Camera Permissions for Messenger
One of the first things to check is whether Messenger has been granted permission to access your device’s camera. Here’s how to check permissions on iOS and Android devices:
iOS Devices
- Open Settings > Privacy > Camera
- Make sure Messenger is toggled ON to allow access to the camera
Android Devices
- Open Settings > Apps & Notifications > App Permissions
- Select Camera > Ensure Messenger is allowed to access the camera
Granting camera access permissions for Messenger allows the app to turn on your camera for taking photos/videos and for video calling. If the permissions are disabled, your camera will not work within the Messenger app.
Update to the Latest Version of Messenger
An outdated version of the Messenger app can also cause camera issues on video calls. Messenger is regularly updated with bug fixes and new features.
To ensure you have the latest version:
- On iOS – Open the App Store and check for any available updates for Messenger.
- On Android – Open the Google Play Store, go to My Apps & Games and check if Messenger needs updating.
Install any pending Messenger updates. The newest version may resolve camera problems during video calls.
Enable Camera Access on Your Device
In some cases, the device settings can block access to the camera for all apps. Here’s how to check that the camera is enabled:
iPhone and iPad
- Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera
- Ensure the toggle for Camera is ON (green)
This enables camera access across all apps on your iOS device.
Android Phone
- Open your device’s Settings
- Tap Apps & Notifications
- Select App Permissions > Camera
- Check that the Camera toggle is enabled
If camera access is disabled, turn it on at the device level to allow Messenger to use the camera.
Check Network Connectivity
An unstable internet connection can also interfere with Messenger’s video calling capabilities.
Here are some tips for improving connectivity:
- Restart your router and modem to refresh the connection.
- Connect your device to a different WiFi network or use mobile data.
- Move closer to your WiFi router if the signal is weak.
- Close any bandwidth-heavy apps running in the background.
- Ask others on the network to temporarily limit bandwidth usage.
A strong and stable internet connection is important for a smooth video call experience. Test the network first before a video chat to identify and troubleshoot any connectivity issues.
Check Device Compatibility
Messenger’s video calling feature requires:
- A front-facing camera
- Microphone access
- Latest OS version – iOS 10+ or Android 4.1+
Very old smartphones may lack the necessary hardware or software support. For example, the iPhone 4 and earlier models do not have front cameras.
Upgrade to a newer device that meets the minimum requirements if your current phone or tablet is too outdated. The latest iOS and Android versions tend to offer better stability for apps.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If the above steps do not resolve the camera issues, try these additional troubleshooting suggestions:
- Force close and restart the Messenger app
- Restart your smartphone or tablet
- Delete and reinstall Messenger app
- Remove Messenger app data and cache
- Factory reset device (backup data first)
Reinstalling the app often helps refresh any corrupted files or data. As a last resort, a full factory reset will eliminate any device-specific software bugs.
Conclusion
Cameras not working on Messenger video calls can be frustrating. However, the problem is usually caused by an app glitch, software bug or device setting that can be fixed.
First, verify that Messenger has camera access permissions enabled. Update the app to eliminate any outdated code issues. Check that your device’s camera is not disabled at the system level. Improve internet connectivity by moving closer to your WiFi router or trying mobile data. Finally, rule out hardware incompatibilities by testing the camera on the latest supported smartphone models.
With some systematic checks and tweaks, you should be able to get your camera functioning again for Messenger video calls with friends and family.