FaceTime shows black screen instead of video
First, confirm your camera works in the Camera app. If it does, the problem is FaceTime-specific. Force-close FaceTime, check it has camera permission in Settings, and make sure no other app is using the camera.
A black screen in FaceTime while the camera works elsewhere is almost always a FaceTime app glitch, disabled camera permission, or another app blocking camera access. Rarely, Screen Time settings can restrict FaceTime video. Hardware issues are unlikely if the Camera app works fine.
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Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Thinking the camera is broken when it works fine in the Camera app
- Not realizing Snapchat or Instagram running in background blocks FaceTime camera
- Not restarting FaceTime after changing camera permission — the app needs to restart
- Trying a complete iOS restore when a simple force-quit would have worked
Signs you need professional help
- Camera shows black in FaceTime but also doesn't work in the Camera app or other apps
- You see visible cracks or damage on the front of your iPhone
- Black screen persists after reinstalling FaceTime and restarting
- Phone was dropped or water-exposed recently and video just stopped working
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