Open the meeting link in Chrome and turn on the camera in the preview before joining. Pick your actual webcam from the camera menu. If Meet still shows a crossed-out camera or a black preview, test the same camera in another app to see whether the problem is limited to Meet.
01If Meet selected the wrong camera
Section linkUse the camera dropdown under the preview to choose the built-in camera or the external webcam you want. If the picture is black, open any physical lens cover and check the camera’s privacy switch. Close any other meeting app or browser tab using the camera, then reload Meet.
02If the camera works in another app
Section linkIn Chrome, open meet.google.com and click the site information icon to the left of the address. Select Site settings, set Camera to Allow for Meet, then reload the meeting tab and check the preview. If a work or school policy locks the setting, ask your administrator.
03If the site has permission but Chrome still can’t use the camera
Section linkOn Windows 11, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Camera and check Camera access and Let desktop apps access your camera. The desktop apps switch also affects other desktop apps. On a Mac, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera and allow Google Chrome if it appears. Reopen Chrome and test the Meet preview again.
04If the camera fails outside Meet too
Section linkTest in Camera on Windows or Photo Booth on Mac. For a USB webcam, reconnect it directly to the computer and repeat the test. If the system app still can’t show a picture, check the camera or computer maker’s support instructions. If Meet’s preview works but video freezes after joining, check the connection and try the meeting again.