Zoom Camera Not Working (Cannot Start Video)
Ongoing Windows, macOS, iOS, Android Updated October 21, 2026
Quick answer
Zoom's 'Cannot start video' error usually means another app is using the camera, Zoom lacks camera permission, or the wrong camera is selected. Close other video apps, grant permission and pick the right camera.
Most likely fix: Close other apps using the camera.
Symptoms
Black video tile, 'Cannot start video' or 'Failed to start the video camera' message, even though the camera may preview in settings.
Why it happens
- Another app (Teams, FaceTime, browser) is using the camera
- OS camera permission off for desktop apps / Zoom
- Wrong camera selected in Zoom
- Outdated or broken camera driver
- Zoom version bug
How to fix it
Try these in order — the most common fix is first.
1. Close other apps using the camera
- Quit Teams, Skype, FaceTime, OBS and browser tabs with video
- Restart Zoom
2. Select the right camera
- In a meeting click the arrow next to Start Video > Video Settings
- Pick your camera and confirm the preview
3. Grant camera permission
- Windows: Settings > Privacy & security > Camera > turn on 'Let desktop apps access your camera'
- macOS: System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera > enable zoom.us
- iOS: Settings > Privacy > Camera > Zoom; Android: Settings > Apps > Zoom > Permissions > Camera
4. Update or roll back the camera driver (Windows)
- Device Manager > Cameras/Imaging devices > your camera > Driver
- Choose Update Driver, or Roll Back Driver if it broke after an update
5. Reconnect the webcam
- Quit Zoom, unplug the USB camera, use another port, reopen Zoom
6. Reinstall Zoom
- Uninstall completely, restart the device, install the latest version
This guide also covers
- zoom camera not working
- zoom cannot start video
- zoom video not working
- failed to start the video camera zoom
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