HP Envy 15 Camera Not Working

[GT1909]

Hello,

I have an HP Envy 15 that recently started giving me problems with the built-in webcam. 

Basically, I turn the camera on and there is a gray static. It will become dark if I cover the camera, but doesn't pick up shapes or colors.  The issue seems to disappear at random since I sometimes open a zoom meeting and am pleasantly surprised by seeing my face. 

Is there any known software issue that may be causing this, or do I have to give up and send it in for a check-up?

Best,

GT

[Sneha_01]

Hi @GT1909,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like you're dealing with an issue where the built-in webcam on your HP Envy 15 is malfunctioning. The gray static and intermittent functionality can be caused by a number of software or hardware problems. Here are several troubleshooting steps to help resolve or diagnose the issue:

1. Check for Camera Software Conflicts

• Close any apps using the camera: If multiple apps are trying to use the webcam at the same time, it can cause conflicts. Close apps like Zoom, Skype, or any other camera-based applications, and then try using the camera again.
• Camera permissions: Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera and ensure that apps are allowed to access the camera.

2. Update Camera Drivers

• Update drivers: Outdated or corrupted camera drivers are a common cause for webcam issues.
  • Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  • Expand the Imaging Devices section and right-click on the camera.
  • Choose Update driver and select Search automatically for updated driver software. Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
• Reinstall drivers: If updating doesn't work, uninstall and reinstall the drivers:
  • Right-click the camera under Imaging Devices and select Uninstall device.
  • Restart your computer. Windows should automatically reinstall the camera driver.

3. Check for Windows Updates

• Ensure your system is fully up-to-date as new updates may include fixes for device compatibility issues.
  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for any pending updates.

4. Reset or Reinstall Camera App

• If you're using the Windows Camera app, resetting it might help:
  • Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  • Scroll down and find the Camera app.
  • Select Advanced options and click Reset.

5. Check for Camera Software Conflicts

• If you're using third-party software to manage the camera (e.g., HP's own camera software), ensure that there are no settings or conflicts causing the camera to fail.
• Try disabling any software that might be controlling the camera (like HP's HP Camera or third-party webcam applications).

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

Rachel571

HP Support