In this guide, we will explore various methods to resolve the issue of the Pixel Fold rear camera not working. Despite the Silicon Valley giant’s reputation for exceptional software experience, their hardware sometimes falls short. Venturing into the foldable domain with the Pixel Fold posed a significant risk, particularly since it was their first iteration in this category.
Camera Not Working on Pixel Fold
Unfortunately, some of the initial concerns have proven to be true. Numerous users have reported that the rear camera on their Pixel Fold is not functioning as expected. The rear and inner screen selfie cameras only display a black screen for a few seconds before the device crashes and reboots. Only the front camera seems to be working correctly. If you’re facing similar issues, don’t worry; this guide is here to help you. Let’s dive in and explore the solutions.
Fix Pixel Fold Real Camera Not Working
It is recommended to try each of the below-mentioned workarounds to identify the one that brings success. So let’s get started with the troubleshooting methods:
FIX 1: Boot to Safe Mode
Booting the Pixel Fold in Safe Mode allows you to identify if a third-party app is causing conflicts with the camera. In Safe Mode, only pre-installed system apps are active, while third-party apps are temporarily disabled. To boot into Safe Mode:
- Press and hold the Power button.
- Tap and hold the “Power off” option until the “Reboot to Safe Mode” prompt appears.
- Tap “OK” to confirm and enter Safe Mode.
- Check if the camera works in Safe Mode. If it does, a third-party app might be the culprit.
FIX 2: Force Stop Camera
Force stopping the camera app can help resolve temporary glitches. To force stop the camera app:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Apps & notifications” or “Apps.”
- Find and tap on “Camera.”
- Tap “Force stop.”
FIX 3: Disable and Re-Enable Camera
Disabling and re-enabling the camera can refresh the camera settings and potentially fix the issue. To disable and re-enable the camera:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Apps & notifications” or “Apps.”
- Find and tap on “Camera.”
- Tap “Disable” and confirm. Then, tap “Enable” to re-enable the camera.
FIX 4: Toggle Camera Access
Sometimes, a simple toggle of camera access can resolve camera-related problems. To toggle camera access:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Apps & notifications” or “Apps.”
- Find and tap on “Camera.”
- Tap “Permissions” or “App permissions.”
- Toggle off camera access, wait for a few seconds, and then toggle it back on.
FIX 5: Remove Battery Limitations for Camera
In some cases, battery optimization settings can interfere with the camera’s functioning. To remove battery limitations for the camera:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Battery” or “Battery & performance.”
- Tap “Battery optimization.”
- Find and select “Camera” from the list.
- Choose “Don’t optimize” to remove battery restrictions for the camera.
FIX 6: Unpause the App Activity of the Camera
If the camera app’s activity is paused, it may not function properly. To unpause the camera app activity:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Apps & notifications” or “Apps.”
- Find and tap on “Camera.”
- Look for “App info” or “App settings” and open it.
- If the app is paused, select “Unpause” or “Resume.”
FIX 7: Delete Data of Camera
Clearing the camera app’s data can resolve issues caused by corrupt or conflicting data. Note that this will reset the camera app settings. To delete the camera app’s data:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Apps & notifications” or “Apps.”
- Find and tap on “Camera.”
- Look for “Storage” or “Storage & cache” and open it.
- Tap “Clear data” or “Clear storage.”
FIX 8: Downgrade Google Camera
In some cases, issues with the camera may be related to updates in the Google Camera app. Downgrading to a previous version might help. To downgrade Google Camera:
- Uninstall updates for Google Camera:
- Go to “Settings” on your Pixel Fold.
- Select “Apps & notifications” or “Apps.”
- Find and tap on “Google Camera.”
- Tap the three-dot menu and select “Uninstall updates.”
- Install an older version of Google Camera (from a reliable source).
FIX 9: Use Alternative Camera Apps
Trying alternative camera apps from the Play Store might help identify if the issue is specific to the stock camera app. Install a few third-party camera apps and check if they work properly.
FIX 10: Factory Reset Device
If none of the above methods work, performing a factory reset can help resolve persistent software-related issues. Before proceeding, ensure you back up all your important data, as a factory reset will erase everything on the device.
FIX 11: Opt Out of Android 14 Beta [If Applicable]
If your Pixel Fold is running on an Android 14 beta version, it might be the cause of the camera problem. Opting out of the beta program and reverting to a stable Android version might resolve the issue.
These methods should help you fix the issue of the Pixel Fold rear camera not working. The official stance on this matter indicates that the developers are aware of the problem, but there is no specific ETA for the rollout of a fix. Rest assured, as soon as an update becomes available, we will update this guide accordingly. Meanwhile, the aforementioned workarounds are your best options.
Camera Not Working on Pixel Fold
As of now, only one user has reported being successful in returning their device to Google and receiving a replacement. Other users have received the same response from Google, suggesting that they wait for subsequent OTA updates.
Conclusion
The Pixel Fold’s camera issue has been a cause of concern for users, but the provided workarounds should help alleviate the problem. As technology evolves, it’s common for early iterations of innovative devices to encounter glitches. Google is actively working on a fix, and users can expect improvements in future updates.
FAQs
- Q: Is there an official statement from Google about the camera issue on Pixel Fold?
- A: Yes, Google is aware of the problem and is actively working on a solution, but they haven’t provided a specific timeline for the fix yet.
- Q: Can I return my Pixel Fold and get a replacement for the camera issue?
- A: Only one user has reported being successful in getting a replacement from Google. Other users are advised to wait for OTA updates.
- Q: Are there any alternative camera apps that might work on the Pixel Fold?
- A: Yes, using alternative camera apps is one of the listed workarounds. You can try different camera apps to see if they resolve the issue.
- Q: Will downgrading Google Camera help in fixing the rear camera problem?
- A: Downgrading Google Camera is one of the suggested solutions. You can try this method to see if it resolves the issue.
- Q: Is it safe to perform a factory reset on my Pixel Fold to fix the camera problem?
- A: While a factory reset can sometimes resolve software-related issues, make sure to back up your data before attempting this method.
