Apps can’t access camera and photos on iOS 18? Here’s what to do

Apple attaches great importance to user privacy. Numerous security measures have been taken to prevent third parties from accessing data or functions on your iPhone without your express permission. While these features are useful, they can get you into trouble if they don’t work. Take the recent iOS 18.1 update for example – glitches can result in apps being unable to access the camera or photo apps. Here’s how to restore these permissions.

How do I allow access to photos and camera on iOS 18?

1. Check privacy and security settings

NOTE

If you don’t want apps to have full access to your photo library, you also have the option to limit access to some photos. Just tap on the option for Limited access Step three and select your photos.

2. Try force restarting your iPhone

There’s a chance you’re encountering a temporary software glitch that’s preventing apps from accessing your photos and camera. You can force restart your iPhone to fix such software-related issues.

1. Briefly press the button and release it again Volume up button.
2. Briefly press the button and release it again Volume down button.
3. Now press and hold the button Side/power button.
4. Let that go Side button Once you see the Apple logo.

3. Check individual app permissions

There is also a way to control camera and photo permissions for individual apps on iPhone. Check if you accidentally disabled them.

1. Start the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap Apps.

   

3. Select the app you are having problems with.
4. Turn on the switch next to it camera.

   

5. Tap Photos option and tap Full access.

   

6. If a confirmation dialog appears, tap Allow full access.

4. Check your Screen Time settings

Screen Time on iPhone lets you restrict camera and photo permissions for specific apps. Check your settings and see if they are blocked when you enable focus modes.

1. Start the Settings app on your iPhone. Then navigate to Screen time.

   

2. Knock Content and Privacy Restrictions. Then tap Allowed apps and features.

   

3. Activate the toggle next to “Camera.” and enter it Screen Time Passcode.

   

4. Then select the option for Photos and tap Allow change.

   

5. Tap and select the app you’re having trouble with Full access.

   

6. If a confirmation dialog appears, tap Allow full access.

5. Install the latest version of iOS

Sometimes iOS errors can affect app permissions and cause unexpected problems. You should update your iPhone to the latest iOS version to ensure you have the appropriate fixes to fix such errors.

1. Open that Settings app and navigate to Generally.

   

2. Knock Software update and wait for your iPhone to check for updates.
3. When a new iOS update is available, tap Update now (or Install Now).

   

4. Enter yours iPhone passcode And Agree to the general terms and conditions.

   

6. Reinstall the app in question

In some cases, the problem may be due to a bug in the app itself. Try reinstalling the app to get the latest bug fixes and software updates.

1. Tap and hold the app you’re having trouble with.
2. In the context menu that appears, tap Remove app.

   

3. Choose Delete app and hit Delete to confirm the action.

   

4. Open that App Store and navigate to Search tab.
5. Search for the app and tap blue cloud button.

   

7. Reset all settings on iPhone

If your apps still can’t access Camera and Photos, you should reset all settings on your iPhone without deleting your data. This action will reset all system settings, including your privacy and security settings, to their default state. This eliminates hidden glitches or misconfigurations that could be causing problems.

1. Start the Settings app on your iPhone and navigate to Generally.
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page and tap Transfer or reset iPhone.

   

3. On the page that appears, tap Reset and select Reset all settings.

   

4. Now enter your lock screen password and tap Reset all settings.