XPS 17 9720, Camera not working

If the camera on your Dell XPS 17 9720 is not working, there could be several reasons for this issue. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

1. Check for Physical Camera Cover or Shutter:

   • Some laptops, including Dell XPS models, come with physical camera covers or shutters. Make sure that the camera cover is not closed or obstructing the camera lens.

2. Camera Privacy Settings:

   • In Windows, camera access can be controlled by privacy settings. Ensure that camera access is enabled in Windows settings:
     • Go to "Settings" (Windows key + I).
     • Click on "Privacy."
     • Under "App permissions," click on "Camera" on the left panel.
     • Make sure "Camera access for this device" is turned on.
     • Also, check if camera access is allowed for specific apps under "Allow apps to access your camera."

3. Update Camera Drivers:

   • Outdated or corrupted camera drivers can cause issues. To update the camera drivers:
     • Right-click on the Start menu and select "Device Manager."
     • Expand the "Imaging devices" or "Cameras" section.
     • Right-click on your camera device and select "Update driver."
     • Choose to search for updated drivers automatically online.

4. Check for Software Conflicts:

   • Sometimes, third-party applications or services can interfere with the camera. Try booting into Safe Mode to see if the camera works there. If it does, it might be a software conflict.

5. Restart the Lapmargin: 0;">BIOS Settings:

   • Ensure that the camera is not disabled in the laptop's BIOS settings. Access the BIOS during startup (usually by pressing F2) and look for camera-related settings.

6. Camera Hardware Check:

   • Physically inspect the camera to ensure there is no damage to the lens or wiring.

7. System Restore:

   • If the camera was working previously and has stopped after a software update or installation of a new program, consider performing a System Restore to a point before the issue occurred.

8. Update Windows:

   • Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date with the latest updates and patches. Sometimes, Windows updates include fixes for camera-related issues.

9. Contact Dell Support:

   • If none of the above steps resolves the issue, especially if your laptop is still under warranty, it's recommended to contact Dell's customer support or take your laptop to an authorized Dell service center for professional diagnosis and repair.

@AdrianG001​  Thanks, I've done most of that already, will make sure I do it all again. The apps and stand alone 'act' like the camera is working, it's just a blank screen. For instance, if I close laptop, the apps will give an error saying camera is blocked or the lid is closed. If I try to open another app that uses the camera while I already have a different app using it, I get the "another app is using the camera, please close that app". I'm sure it's a setting or something happened after an update. I get no errors, just blank camera screen...