Follow these steps on Windows 10 to troubleshoot the camera not working in Google Meet and other video calls:
- Test the camera in the Windows Camera app
- Select Start > Camera.
- Check if the preview works.
- If the camera works here but not in Google Meet or other apps, the issue is likely with the app or browser settings.
- Check if the camera is blocked by a physical switch or key
- Look for a function key (F1–F12) with a camera icon and press it (sometimes Fn + that key) to enable the webcam.
- Check for a privacy slider/shutter on or around the camera lens and slide it open.
- Verify the camera is detected by Windows
- Right‑click Start > Device Manager.
- Expand Cameras (or Imaging devices on some PCs).
- Confirm the camera is listed and has no warning icon.
- If it is missing or shows errors, reinstall the camera driver from the PC manufacturer’s support page.
- Check if the problem is app‑specific
- If the camera works in the Camera app but not in Google Meet or other calling apps, adjust the app’s camera settings:
- In each app, open its Settings and select the correct camera device.
- For browser‑based Google Meet, ensure the browser is allowed to use the camera in the site permissions.
- If the camera works in the Camera app but not in Google Meet or other calling apps, adjust the app’s camera settings:
- Update Windows and camera drivers
- Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
- If View optional updates appears, open it and install any camera‑related driver updates.
- Restart the PC and test again in the Camera app and then in Google Meet.
- Run the Windows camera troubleshooter
- On Windows 10, use the automated troubleshooter in the Get Help app: select Run the troubleshooter in Get Help from the camera support article and follow the steps.
- Check antivirus or security software
- Some antivirus or firewall tools can block camera access.
- Temporarily disable camera‑blocking features in the antivirus settings and test the camera again.
If the camera still does not work in any app after these steps, test the camera on another device to rule out a hardware fault and, if necessary, contact the camera or PC manufacturer for further support.
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