How to fix Facetime black screen on Mac
A Mac or MacBook both have a built-in webcam. The webcam will work with any app that can use it e.g, Microsoft Teams or Zoom but it is known as the Facetime camera and is meant to work with the app of the same name.
Facetime, much like iMessage, works really well as a service but it does need to use the camera. Facetime calls generally do connect easily and immediately though you can expect a delay if you’re calling someone connected to a weak network.
Fix Facetime black screen
If you’re trying to Facetime someone can consistently get a black screen, restart your Mac at least once before you move on to the following fixes.
Terminal fix
Make sure the Facetime app is not open on your system before you try this fix. No other app that can use the webcam should be open.
- Open Terminal from Spotlight or from Mission Control.
- Run the following command.
sudo killall VDCAssistant
- Enter the password when prompted and tap Enter.
- Run this command next.
sudo killall AppleCameraAssistant
- Enter the password again, and tap Enter.
- Open Facetime.
SMC Reset
Hardware problems can sometimes be resolved with an SMC reset. The reset is easy to perform but the method will differ based on the type of Mac you have.
Desktop Mac/iMac/Mac Mini
- Shut down the Mac.
- Remove the power cord.
- Wait fifteen seconds
- Connect the cord again.
- Wait another fifteen seconds
- Power the Mac on.
MacBook Pro/Air
- Shut down the Mac.
- Make sure the MacBook is connected to a power source.
- Tap and hold the Shift+Control+Option+Power button for fifteen seconds.
- Release the buttons and wait another fifteen seconds.
- Turn the MacBook on.
MacBook 2018 or later models
- Shut down the MacBook.
- The MacBook should be connected to a power source.
- Hold down the Left Control, Left Option, and Right Shift key for ten seconds.
- Without releasing these keys, press the Power button.
- Hold down all four keys for ten seconds.
- Release the keys and wait fifteen seconds.
- Power the MacBook on.
Conclusion
If the above two methods do not fix Facetime, it is possible that you have a hardware problem. Have your Mac checked either by Apple or by a third-party authorized to do repairs. The problem may be small i.e., a disconnected wire. If you do not want to have the computer checked out, you can always try installing macOS fresh. It can resolve all software related issues but it is a tedious task that will require taking a back up of all your files.
