Camera shows “covered” even after BIOS F.17 update – HP Laptop 14-ep1063cl

[EZresearch]

My HP Laptop 14-ep1063cl camera light turns on, but the image stays black and says “camera is covered.”
I’ve already updated the BIOS (F.17), installed all drivers, and ran both Windows and UEFI diagnostics.
The camera hardware test also says “camera may be covered.”
Could HP please provide the privacy-camera firmware refresh tool or instructions to unlock it?
Serial: Edited

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @EZresearch,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP Laptop 14-ep1063cl camera light turns on, but the screen remains black and shows “camera is covered” even after updating to BIOS version F.17. Let’s go through a few steps to check and possibly resolve this issue.

1. Verify the Privacy Shutter

Ensure there’s no physical privacy shutter or slider on the top bezel of the screen.

Some HP models have a small black switch or dot that slides to cover or uncover the camera lens — it can be easy to miss.

2. Check Camera Permissions

Press Windows + I → Privacy & Security → Camera.

Make sure Camera access and Let apps access your camera are both turned ON.

Scroll down and confirm that apps like Camera, Zoom, or Teams have permission.

3. Reset the Camera Driver

Press Windows + X → Device Manager.

Expand Cameras or Imaging Devices.

Right-click on HP Wide Vision Camera (or similar) → Uninstall Device.

Restart your laptop — Windows will automatically reinstall the camera driver.

If the Camera section doesn’t appear, click View → Show Hidden Devices, then try again.

4. Perform an EC (Embedded Controller) Reset

Shut down the laptop completely.

Disconnect the power adapter and any peripherals.

Press and hold the Power button for 20 seconds.

Reconnect only the power cable and power on the laptop.

This clears any firmware-level errors related to the camera privacy mechanism.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

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Best regards,