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Google Hangouts is a popular tool for video calls and meetings. Sometimes, users face issues where the camera does not work during Hangouts calls on Windows 11. This can be frustrating, especially if you need to join an important meeting quickly.

Fortunately, most camera problems on Windows 11 can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps. These steps will help you identify and solve the issue without needing advanced technical knowledge.

In this guide, you will learn how to fix the Google Hangouts camera not working problem in a clear and easy-to-understand way. Follow the instructions carefully for the best results.

Let’s get started with the basic checks and move towards more detailed solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

• Check Camera Connection: Make sure your webcam is properly connected to your PC. If you are using an external camera, check the USB cable and port.
• Close Other Apps Using the Camera: Sometimes, other applications like Skype or Zoom can block the camera. Close all other apps that might be using the camera.
• Update Windows 11: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates often include fixes for hardware compatibility.
• Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can resolve many temporary glitches.

Step 1: Check Camera Permissions for Google Hangouts

Windows 11 has security settings that control which apps can access your camera. If Google Hangouts does not have permission, the camera will not work.

1. Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
2. Go to Privacy & security on the left menu.
3. Click on Camera under the App permissions section.
4. Make sure the toggle for Camera access is turned On.
5. Scroll down and check that Allow apps to access your camera is On.
6. Find your web browser (e.g., Chrome, Edge) in the list and ensure it has permission to use the camera.

This step is important because if the browser cannot use the camera, Google Hangouts (which runs in the browser) will not detect it.

Step 2: Select the Correct Camera in Google Hangouts

Sometimes, if you have more than one camera connected, Google Hangouts might be using the wrong one.

1. Open Google Hangouts in your browser and start or join a call.
2. Click on the Settings icon (usually a gear symbol) in the call window.
3. Under the Video section, check the dropdown menu for camera options.
4. Select the camera you want to use (usually your built-in webcam or external USB camera).
5. Check the preview to see if the camera feed appears.

This ensures that Hangouts uses the right camera device, especially if you have multiple cameras connected.

Step 3: Update Camera Drivers in Windows 11

Outdated or faulty camera drivers can cause problems with video apps. Updating the driver can fix compatibility issues.

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Find and expand the Cameras section.
3. Right-click on your camera device and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for updated drivers and install them if available.
5. Restart your computer after the update.

Keeping drivers up to date helps maintain smooth hardware performance and fixes bugs.

Step 4: Check Browser Settings for Camera Access

Since Google Hangouts works inside your browser, the browser itself needs permission to use the camera.

1. Open your browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).
2. Go to the browser’s settings or preferences menu.
3. Find the Privacy and Security section.
4. Look for Site Settings or Permissions.
5. Click on Camera and ensure that the site for Google Hangouts (hangouts.google.com) is allowed to use the camera.
6. Remove any blocks if present, and refresh the Hangouts page.

Granting camera access in the browser is crucial for Hangouts to receive video input from your device.

Step 5: Disable Antivirus or Firewall Temporarily

Sometimes, antivirus software or firewall settings block access to the camera for security reasons.

• Temporarily disable your antivirus software or firewall.
• Try using the camera in Google Hangouts again.
• If the camera works, you may need to add an exception for Google Hangouts or your browser in your security software settings.

Be careful when disabling security software; turn it back on after testing.

Step 6: Use the Windows Camera App to Test Your Webcam

Before blaming Google Hangouts, check if your camera works with other apps.

1. Press Windows + S and type Camera.
2. Open the Camera app.
3. If the camera shows video feed here, it means your camera hardware and drivers are working correctly.
4. If not, you may have a hardware or driver problem that needs fixing before Hangouts can use the camera.

Step 7: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Sometimes, corrupted cache or cookies can cause issues with Google Hangouts.

1. Open your browser’s settings.
2. Navigate to Privacy and Security.
3. Click on Clear browsing data.
4. Select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files.
5. Click Clear data.
6. Restart the browser and try Google Hangouts again.

This can solve unexpected glitches caused by old or corrupted data.

FAQs

Why is my camera working on other apps but not on Google Hangouts?

This usually happens because Google Hangouts or your browser does not have permission to use the camera. Check your Windows privacy settings and browser permissions to solve this.

Can restarting Google Hangouts fix the camera issue?

Yes, sometimes restarting the app or browser can reset the camera connection and fix temporary glitches.

Is it necessary to update Windows 11 for camera issues?

While not always mandatory, updating Windows 11 ensures you have the latest drivers and bug fixes, which can improve camera functionality.

What if my camera is not detected at all?

Check if the camera is properly connected, test with the Camera app, and update drivers. If it still doesn’t work, the camera hardware might be faulty.

Can I use an external webcam if the built-in camera doesn’t work?

Yes, an external webcam can be a good alternative. Just connect it and select it in Google Hangouts settings.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and your camera still does not work on Google Hangouts in Windows 11, consider these final options:

• Try a Different Browser: Switch to another browser like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox to see if the problem persists.
• Reset Browser Settings: Reset your browser to default settings to clear any misconfigurations.
• Reinstall Camera Drivers: In Device Manager, uninstall the camera device and restart your PC to reinstall drivers automatically.
• Contact Support: Visit the Google Hangouts Help Center for official help and updates.
• Use Google Meet: Google is gradually moving from Hangouts to Google Meet, which may have better compatibility and features.

Conclusion

Camera issues on Google Hangouts in Windows 11 can be caused by permission settings, driver problems, browser restrictions, or hardware faults. By following the steps in this guide—from checking permissions to updating drivers and browser settings—you can fix most problems without hassle.

Remember to start with simple checks like camera permissions and browser access before moving to advanced troubleshooting. If all else fails, trying a different browser or contacting support might be the best option.

With these clear and easy steps, you should be able to get your Google Hangouts camera working smoothly again on Windows 11.