How to fix webcam not detected on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To fix a webcam not detected on a Mac, start by checking the system preferences and ensuring that the camera is not disabled. If the issue persists, restart your Mac, check for software updates, and verify that the application trying to access the webcam has the necessary permissions.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before attempting to fix the webcam detection issue, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Mac running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later.
  • •Access to the System Preferences and necessary permissions to modify settings.
  • •An application that requires webcam access (e.g., Zoom, Skype, FaceTime).
  • •Backup important data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.

Method 1: Check System Preferences

This method is used to ensure that the webcam is enabled and that applications have the necessary permissions.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Preferences'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Security & Privacy', then select the 'Camera' tab on the left side.
  • •Step 3: Ensure that the checkbox next to the applications you want to use the camera with is checked.
  • •Step 4: If the checkbox is greyed out, click the lock icon at the bottom left, enter your admin password, and then check the box.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, open an application like FaceTime or Photo Booth to see if the camera is detected.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, try restarting your Mac and repeat the steps.

For macOS Ventura (13) and later

In macOS Ventura and later, the interface may have slight changes.
  • •Open 'System Settings' instead of 'System Preferences'.
  • •Navigate to 'Privacy & Security', then select 'Camera'.

For macOS Monterey (12) and earlier

The steps are similar but may have different menu labels.
  • •Ensure you are in 'System Preferences' and look for 'Security & Privacy'.
  • •The 'Camera' tab should be directly accessible.

Method 2: Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Resetting the NVRAM/PRAM can resolve hardware-related issues, including webcam detection.
  • •Step 1: Shut down your Mac.
  • •Step 2: Turn it on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R keys.
  • •Step 3: Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds, then release them.
  • •Step 4: Allow your Mac to boot normally and check if the webcam is detected.
  • •Step 5: If it still doesn't work, consider resetting the SMC (System Management Controller).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the webcam is still not detected, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'No camera available' - Solution: Check if any other applications are using the camera and close them.
  • •Issue: Camera works in some apps but not others - Fix: Verify app permissions in 'System Preferences' > 'Security & Privacy' > 'Camera'.
  • •Problem: External webcam not detected - Workaround: Try using a different USB port or test the webcam on another computer.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance webcam functionality:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick access to applications.
  • •Command line: sudo killall VDCAssistant - Resets the camera driver if it's misbehaving.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Photo Booth' to quickly test your webcam without needing to open other applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly check for macOS updates to ensure compatibility with applications that use the webcam.