This article intends to fix the issue of the MacBook Pro camera not working and no green light. MacBook is an advanced computer from Apple and works on iOS.
Compared to normal laptops, the Macbook is faster and more efficient. You can perform any function on it like 3D programming, image editing, video editing, etc.
The built-in camera is visible on the top of the display. When the camera is activated, you observe a green indicator.
However, at times, the MacBook camera stops working and no green light is shown. In this situation, the camera also stops working on apps like Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime.
But, do not worry. It is not a complex solution and can be fixed easily. You just need to try some troubleshooting tricks mentioned in this article. So, let us start our guide.
1. Restart Your Macbook
An immediate solution to all problems is to restart your MacBook Pro. This helps remove temporary system bugs that may be interfering with the normal functioning of your device.
The restart process is as follows;
- Click the Apple icon on the top left corner of your MacBook screen.
- Next, tap the ‘Restart’ option and wait for the process to complete.
- Now, check your camera and green light.
2. Reset SMC
SMC stands for ‘System Management Controller’. It is responsible for controlling some hardware functions on your MacBook. Resetting this function can help fix the camera.
- Connect the charger to your MacBook Pro and turn ON the power supply.
- Click the Apple icon on the top left corner of the screen. Choose ‘Preferences’ from the menu and then tap ‘Shutdown’.
- Now, press and hold the ‘Shift+Control+Option’ buttons. While holding these buttons, also hold down the power button.
- Release the power button after 10 seconds or when your MacBook restarts.
- However, keep holding the ‘Shift+Control+Option’ buttons for 40 seconds or until the device turns ON completely.
3. Check App Settings
Sometimes, the camera fails to work with a particular app. This indicates that the issue is in the app or the access. You may have denied camera access to certain apps.
You can check this aspect by the following steps;
- Click the Apple logo on the top left of your MacBook screen.
- Choose ‘System Preferences’ from the drop-down menu.
- Next, tap the ‘Security’ option and then ‘Privacy’ from the list.
- Finally, click on the ‘Camera’ option. Allow the camera access to the apps you are using.
- Now, check if the green light appears.
4. Disable Multiple Apps
Camera not working issue also occurs when multiple apps use the built-in camera. Most of the apps automatically activate the web camera.
But, only one app can be used at a time. Sometimes, it happens that you launch a second app while the first one is using the camera in the background.
The solution to this issue is to quilt all the applications. Follow these steps;
- Open the ‘Launchpad’ in the taskbar of your MacBook Pro.
- Click on the ‘Other’ option and then tap ‘Terminal’.
- In the dialogue box, type “sudo killall vdcassistant”.
- Press the ‘Enter’ button to close all the apps.
- This may require entering your MacBook Pro password. Let the system close all the apps.
- After 20 seconds, check your camera and green light.
5. Disconnect External Devices
Sometimes, the issue is not internal but rather external. A peripheral device may be affecting camera performance.
For example, an external keyboard, mouse, speaker, Bluetooth device, or other wireless or wired devices are likely to pose the problem.
So, you should try to disconnect the external devices. It is suggested to unplug the devices one by one and notice the difference.
Carefully observe, and disconnect which device fixes your camera. Troubleshoot the device which is problematic.
Also read: The Method to Connect Phonak Hearing Aid to MacBook
6. Run Apple Diagnostics
MacBook Pro comes with a built-in hardware diagnostic system. This program can detect hardware defects. You should follow these instructions accurately;
- Shut down your MacBook Pro by clicking the Apple icon.
- Unplug all external devices such as the keyboard, mouse, speaker, etc.
- Press and hold the power button until the ‘Startup’ options window appears on the screen.
- The screen should display an icon labeled ‘Options’.
- Click the ‘D’ key on the keyboard and choose your preferred language.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the diagnostics.
- The device will show a list of codes, each one indicating the specific underlying hardware issue.
7. Adjust Screen Time
MacBook Pro is equipped with a feature called screen time. This intends to limit the time spent on the screen.
This feature is very helpful for parents who can limit screen usage by their kids. During off-timing, certain programs cannot be accessed including the camera.
So, you should check and adjust this feature also.
- Click the Apple icon on the top left corner of the screen.
- Choose ‘System Preferences’ from the drop-down menu.
- Navigate to the ‘Screen Time’ option.
- Next, choose ‘Content and Privacy’ and then tap the ‘Allow’ camera option.
- This will enable camera access. If this does not help, move on to the next solution.
8. Update the Software
Generally, MacBook Pro updates the software automatically. However, sometimes this function is disabled and your Mac is running on an older iOS version.
This can cause several issues including the camera having no green light. You should regularly check for software updates to avoid any problems.
Follow the below-mentioned steps to update the firmware;
- Connect your MacBook Pro to a reliable internet connection.
- Click the Apple icon on the upper left corner of the screen.
- Choose ‘System Preferences’ and then click the ‘Software Updates’ option.
- Your device will show you if a new iOS version is available.
- Install the newest version by following the on-screen prompts.
- Also, check the updates for individual apps. Visit the Apple Store and check all the apps like FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, etc.
- Click the ‘Update’ button next to the app if it shows. Hopefully, this will help solve the issue.
9. Boost MacBook Performance
Another potential solution to the MacBook Pro camera is not working and no green light issue is boosting the performance of your device. The regular usage of the MacBook accumulates a lot of trash files.
They slow down your iOS and cause many troubles. Hence, you need to discard these files. However, it is very difficult to do it manually.
You should take assistance from a software program called MacBooster. It will scan your MacBook Pro to find out the junk files.
Moreover, it removes malware and viruses, optimizes the hard disk, and ensures fast performance. Download and launch MacBooster on your MacBook Pro.
Follow the on-screen instructions to boost your device. Once the process is complete, check the camera functionality again.
10. Ensure A Secure Connection
No green light indicates that the camera is not working or not connected. If you are using an external camera with your Mac, check the connection.
Inspect the cables for any faults, signs of damage, bends, or cuts. Replace the connection cable if it is defective.
Connect the cable securely and firmly. Make sure it fits properly into the port on your Mac. Plug the cable into a different port on your MacBook Pro.
Make sure you have installed the compatible programs in case you are using a third-party camera instead of Apple.
11. Look for Hardware Defects
The above-mentioned solutions are meant to fix the software issues. However, if your MacBook Pro is facing a hardware defect, it needs to be diagnosed.
Try to remember if you accidentally dropped down your device or something hard hit it. Maybe your device has contacted water that is spilled over it.
If your answer is yes, your MacBook Pro has developed a hardware fault. In this case, you should consult Apple and send your device for repair.
Avoid consulting unprofessional technicians. Always seek help from the manufacturer to avoid further complications.
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Final Words
We hope, now your MacBook camera is working well. This guide has listed various solutions to fix your device. We have brought all the verified and tested tricks.
You should try them one by one, and stop where your problem is resolved. However, if nothing works then you must contact Apple support.
This is the final solution to fix your MacBook Pro camera not working and no green light issue.
