Windows 10: Windows 10 Camera issue - It looks like another app is using the camera already

It all started when I updated my laptop. The camera is an essential part of online school, so, please I need help :

:)

 

Change the camera that the Windows 10 camera app uses.

Unintuitively, the icon in the upper left that looks like it's meant to switch between your front and back camera will also cycle through your other attached cameras. At least, this worked for me on a Surface Pro 4 (front and rear camera) with a USB Microsoft LifeCam attached. The Camera application's version is listed as 2018.227.30.1000.

 

Windows 10 update issue - camera

Hi,

Thank you for posting your query on Microsoft Community.

I would require more information to help you better.

What is the make and model of the camera?

I would suggest you to make sure the camera is installed properly and listed under Device Manager.

Follow these steps:

• Press “Windows key + X” from keyboard.
• Select “Device Manager” option from the list.
• Check if the Camera is listed in the devices list.

If it is not listed then the Camera driver is not installed. I would suggest you to run “Hardware and Devices” troubleshooter to diagnose and fix the issue.

If the camera is listed in the device manager, then perform the following troubleshooting methods:

Method 1:

You may try running the Hardware and Device troubleshooter and check if it helps.

a. Press Windows Key +R, type Control Panel.

b. Type troubleshooting in the search bar, click on troubleshooting.

c. Click on Hardware and Sound, click on Hardware and Devices.

d. Follow the steps from the wizard to run the troubleshooter.

Method 2:

If that doesn’t work, then I would suggest you to perform troubleshooting steps from the link “What
to do if you have problems with an app” to diagnose and fix if the issue is with Camera app.

Method 3:

If this doesn’t fix the issue, I would suggest you to uninstall the camera from Device Manager then reinstall it and then check if this fixes the issue.

Follow these steps:

• Press “Windows key + X” from the keyboard.
• Select “Device Manager” option.
• Search for Camera, then right click and select “Uninstall”.
• Then restart the computer.
• Download the latest driver from the Manufacturer’s website and install it.

Please do let us know if you need any further assistance related to Windows, we will be glad to assist you.

 

Change the camera that the Windows 10 camera app uses.

From How to use the Camera app:

1. Open the Camera app.
   
2. Swipe in from the bottom edge to see the app commands.
   (If you're using a mouse, right-click within the app.)
   
3. Tap or click the Change camera button.