HP Envy camera block error - nothing is blocking

[Lisa5501]

Camera has a line stating that there is something blocking the camera. I have deleted and reinstalled. I have made sure everything, drivers, etc., are up to date. I don't know what else to do.

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @Lisa5501,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Thank you for explaining the issue with your HP Envy 17.3-inch Laptop PC 17-cw1000 (8L757AV). I understand that Windows reports that something is blocking the camera, even after you reinstalled the camera and made sure the drivers and Windows are up to date.

Before we make any further software changes, please check the physical camera privacy cover on the display.

Your notebook has a camera privacy cover located next to the camera at the top of the display panel. HP's Maintenance and Service Guide confirms that this cover can be slid across the camera lens to block the camera's view. To use the camera, slide the privacy cover in the opposite direction so that the camera lens is completely uncovered.

Please try the following:

1. Locate the camera at the top center of the display.
2. Check the small camera privacy cover/shutter next to the camera.
3. Slide the cover so that the camera lens is fully exposed.
4. Restart the notebook and open the Camera app again.

You can also refer to the Maintenance and Service Guide. The guide identifies the camera, camera lights, and camera privacy cover in the display-components section.

If the privacy cover is already fully open but you still receive the same message, please check Settings > Privacy & security > Camera and make sure Camera access is turned on and that the application you are using is allowed to access the camera. This is also included in our HP troubleshooting guidance.

Since you have already reinstalled the camera and updated the drivers, please check the physical privacy cover first, as this model is specifically equipped with one.

Let me know how it goes.

Take care and have a good day.