Camera in Chromebook not working

[Saivv]

Camera in my HP Chromebook doesn't turn on.
All system settings were set and reset.

All chrome browser settings were set and reset.

Latest Chrome OS and Chrome browser.

Rebooted multiple times.
Unable to find a physical camera switch as well.

Thanks.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Saivv 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for laying out everything you’ve already tried—that really helps narrow things down. Since you’ve covered the basics like system and browser resets, OS updates, and reboots, let’s move into a few deeper steps that might just do the trick:

🔍 Step 1: Double-Check Camera Permissions

Even if you’ve reset settings, it’s worth confirming:

1. Go to Settings > Security and Privacy > Site Settings > Camera.
2. Make sure the correct camera is selected (if there’s more than one).
3. Ensure camera access is allowed for the apps or sites you're using.

Also, check Settings > Apps > Manage Your Apps, select the app in question, and confirm that Camera permission is enabled.

 

🔄 Step 2: Perform a Hard Reset

This can clear out any lingering glitches:

1. Turn off your Chromebook.
2. Press and hold the Refresh key (⟳), then tap the Power button.
3. Release the Refresh key when the Chromebook starts up.

This won’t erase your data—it just refreshes the hardware state.

 

🧼 Step 3: Try the Camera App Directly

Open the built-in Camera app from the launcher. If it still doesn’t work:

• Try using the camera in Guest Mode to rule out profile-specific issues.
• Check if any extensions are blocking camera access (disable them temporarily).

 

🧽 Step 4: Powerwash (Factory Reset)

If nothing else works, a Powerwash might help:

1. Go to Settings > Reset Settings > Powerwash.
2. Follow the prompts to reset your Chromebook.

Make sure to back up your files first—this will erase local data.

If the camera still doesn’t respond after all this, it could be a hardware issue. 

Let me know if you’d like help checking your warranty or preparing for support—I’m right here with you.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye