Modern smartphones Xiaomi with the MIUI or HyperOS shell offer advanced multimedia capabilities, but sometimes users encounter unexpected limitations. The situation when a video call is interrupted due to a black screen or the application writes that access to the camera is prohibited can take you by surprise at the most inopportune moment. This is a common problem associated with Android's aggressive security policy and specific interface settings WhatsApp crashes due to a black screen or the application writes that access to the camera is prohibited, it can take you by surprise at the most inopportune moment. This is a common problem associated with Android's aggressive security policies and specific interface settings. MiUI.
In most cases, the reason lies not in a hardware failure, but in a software conflict or accidentally reset permissions after a system update. You don't need to take your device to a service center or perform a complicated factory reset. It is enough to sequentially check several sections of the menu to return the video communication functionality to working condition.
This guide will help you quickly activate the shooting module inside the messenger. We will analyze the standard ways to enable, privacy settings of the new security system and methods for eliminating software failures. Follow the instructions carefully, as the location of the items may vary slightly depending on the version of the operating system.
Checking basic permissions in Android settings
The first step should always be to check the standard permissions. The Android operating system requires explicit permission from the user to use hardware modules. If you accidentally clicked "Deny" during the first installation or after a major update, WhatsApp simply will not be able to start the video stream.
To check, go to the main settings menu of your smartphone. Find the "Applications" or "Manage Applications" section. In the list of installed apps, find WhatsApp and click on it. Here you are interested in the “Application Permissions” or “Access Rights” item.
In the list that opens, find the line “Camera”. Make sure the switch is set to Allow or Always Allow. If you set it to "Prompt" or "Deny", video calls will not work. Changing this setting often solves the problem instantly.
- 📱 Open
Settings → Applications → WhatsApp. - 🔒 Go to the "Application Permissions" section.
- ✅ Set the "Allow" flag opposite "Camera" item.
⚠️ Attention: In some versions of MIUI, settings may be reset after updating the security system. Check this item periodically, especially if video calls stop working after the update.
Setting up access through MIUI Application Protection
A unique feature of smartphones Xiaomi is the built-in "Application Protection" tool. This is an additional layer of security that can block access to the camera, even if everything is allowed in the main Android settings. This module is often enabled by default for instant messengers.
To check the status, open the Security application (green icon with a lightning bolt). In the menu, find the item "Application protection" or "App Lock". If the feature is enabled, you will be required to enter your password or fingerprint. Inside the list, find WhatsApp and check its status.
Sometimes blocking occurs not at the launch level, but at the level of access to specific functions. New versions of the HyperOS shell have a "Privacy Defender" that shows in real time which applications are using the camera. If the green indicator is lit there for WhatsApp, it must be removed.
Path to setup: Security → Application protection → (Password) → WhatsApp → UnblockWhy does Xiaomi block the camera?
The company is implementing strict restrictions to protect user data from spyware. However, algorithms sometimes work too aggressively, blocking legitimate requests from messengers.
Eliminating a black screen during video calls
The situation when sound is heard, but the image is not transmitted (black screen), is often associated with a resource conflict. The camera is a unique resource that can only be used by one application at a time. If a background process has "hijacked" a module, WhatsApp will not be able to access it.
Try rebooting the device. This is a simple but effective way to clear RAM and terminate hung camera service processes. Also make sure that other applications that use video communication, such as Telegram, Instagram, or the standard “Camera” are not running.
If the problem persists, it may be a power saving issue. The system could limit the background operation of the messenger to save battery. Go to the battery settings, find WhatsApp and select the "No restrictions" mode. This will allow the application to fully use hardware resources.
- 🔄 Completely restart your smartphone.
- 🔋 In the battery settings, select the "Unlimited" mode for the messenger.
- 🚫 Close all background applications that use camera.
Updating system components and WebView
Correct operation of video communication depends not only on the application itself, but also on system libraries. The component Android System WebView is responsible for displaying web content and operating many internal application functions. Its outdated version may cause crashes.
Go to the store Google Play Market. Search for "Android System WebView" and check for updates. If the Update button is active, complete this process. It is also recommended to update yourself WhatsApp to the latest version, as developers regularly release patches for compatibility with new versions of Android.
In smartphones Xiaomi it is also important to update system components through the Google Play Services application. Go to your phone settings, select "System update" and click on the three dots in the corner to check for updates to security components.
| Component | Where to look | Why update |
|---|---|---|
| Google Play / Mi Store | Fixing video communication bugs | |
| Android System WebView | Google Play | Interface stability |
| Google Play Services | Phone settings | Security and drivers |
⚠️ Attention: The interface of application stores and system settings may change depending on the region and version firmware. If you do not find the item, use the search in settings.
Resetting application settings and clearing the cache
The accumulation of temporary files can lead to incorrect operation of the camera modules. Clearing the cache is a safe procedure that will not delete your conversations, but may eliminate software errors. This is one of the most effective diagnostic methods.
Go to Settings → Applications → All applications → WhatsApp. Select "Memory" or "Storage". Click the "Clear cache" button. Do not confuse this with the "Clear all" button, as it will delete account data and require re-authorization.
If clearing the cache does not help, you can try resetting permission settings for all applications at once. This will return all permissions to factory defaults. You will have to re-allow access to the camera and microphone for all apps used, but this is guaranteed to eliminate conflicting rules.
☑️ Diagnostic checklist
Using alternative clients and the web version
In rare cases, the problem may be in a specific build of the application. If the standard one stubbornly refuses to work with the camera on yours, it’s worth considering alternatives. There are modified versions or the ability to use a web client. WhatsApp stubbornly refuses to work with the camera on your Xiaomi, it's worth considering alternatives. There are modified versions or the option to use a web client.
Web version WhatsApp Web via a browser Chrome or Mi Browser allows you to make video calls using the front or main camera of the phone, if the browser receives the appropriate rights. This may be a temporary solution until the official patch is released.
It is also worth checking whether you have WhatsApp Business installed in parallel with the usual one. A conflict between two versions of the messenger on one device sometimes leads to one of the applications blocking access to the camera for the other. Removing duplicates may solve the problem.
Try making a video call through the chat menu rather than through the call button in your contacts list. Sometimes this helps to bypass a software bug in the interface.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the camera work in normal mode, but turns black in WhatsApp?
This indicates a software conflict. Most likely, the application does not have access rights or its process is frozen. Check permissions and clear the cache.
Does Do Not Disturb mode affect the camera?
The mode does not have a direct effect on the operation of the camera module, but it can block notifications about incoming video calls, which makes it seem that the camera does not turn on.
Do you need to delete the application if the camera does not turn on?
Removal is not necessary. First try resetting your permission settings and updating the app. Removal will only be required if the app files are damaged.
Can the protective glass block the camera?
Physically, no, but if the glass is dirty or displaced, the proximity sensors may not work correctly, turning off the screen during a call, which looks like a camera problem.
In 90% of cases, the problem is solved by simply switching permissions in the "Application Protection" menu or updating the WebView system component.