A blank, black, or frozen camera app on iOS 26 is largely a software-related bug, often appearing as a black screen when switching to the front camera or using third-party apps. Fixes include a force restart (volume up/down, then side button), checking for software updates (like iOS 26.3), or resetting all settings. [1, 2, 3, 4]
This video shows how to force restart your iPhone to fix a blank camera screen:
Common Fixes for iOS 26 Camera Issues
- Force Restart (Most Effective): Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
- Update iOS: Ensure the device is on the latest software, as updates like iOS 26.3 have been noted to fix this issue.
- Toggle Cameras/Modes: Switch between front and back cameras, or switch between photo and video modes.
- Check Restrictions: Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions to ensure camera access is allowed.
- Reset All Settings: Navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.
- Clear Cache/Restart Apps: Force quit the camera app or the specific third-party app (e.g., WhatsApp). [1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]
This video demonstrates how to reset all settings on your iPhone:
If these steps fail, it may be a temporary software bug waiting for a patch, as some users report the issue persists until an iOS update is applied. [3, 6, 7]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/iOSBeta/comments/1qnmhsh/ios_263_db2_camera_sometimes_shows_a_black_screen/
