First: reload and check the permission
90% of camera failures are permissions. Reload the page and, when the browser asks whether OVMNI can use your camera and microphone, tap «Allow». If you already blocked it, follow the steps below to turn it back on.
1. Allow it in your browser
Look for the camera icon or the padlock to the left of the address bar.
- 1
Chrome and Edge
Tap the padlock (or camera icon) next to the URL → turn on «Camera» and «Microphone» → reload.
- 2
Firefox
Tap the padlock next to the URL → «Secure connection» → remove any camera/mic block → reload.
- 3
Safari
Safari menu → «Settings for this website» → set Camera and Microphone to «Allow» → reload.
2. Close other apps using the camera
Only one app can use the camera at a time.
If you have Zoom, Meet, Teams, Discord, OBS, or even another tab with video open, close them completely. Then reload OVMNI. If the camera was showing black, this is usually the cause.
3. Check the right device
If you have several cameras or mics (webcam, laptop, headset), maybe the wrong one is selected.
- Open OVMNI's device panel
- Pick your camera from the list and check the preview
- Pick your microphone and verify the level bar moves when you speak
- If something doesn't appear, check it's connected properly and reload
4. On iPhone or mobile
On mobile, permissions live in two places: the browser and the system.
On iPhone, use Safari and, if nothing happens when you tap «Start», go to Settings → Safari → Camera/Microphone and set it to «Ask» or «Allow». Also check Settings → Privacy & Security, in case camera access is disabled at the system level.
On Android it's usually enough to accept Chrome's permission prompt; if you declined it, tap the padlock in the address bar and turn it back on.
Still not working? Chat without a camera
If you can't get the camera going, you're not locked out: turn on text-only mode and meet people by typing while you sort it out.
See text chatFrequently asked questions
Why does OVMNI need camera and microphone permission?
Because it's a video chat: without access to the camera and mic, your video and voice can't be transmitted. You grant the permission and can revoke it whenever you want.
My video shows black — what do I do?
It's usually another app using the camera or the wrong device selected. Close other video apps, pick your camera in the device panel, and reload.
They see me but can't hear me (or the other way around)
Check the right microphone is selected and not muted. Also check the microphone permission in the browser, separately from the camera.
Does it work on iPhone?
Yes, with Safari. If it won't start, check Camera and Microphone permissions in Settings → Safari and in system Privacy.
Can I use OVMNI without a camera?
Yes. Turn on text-only mode and chat by writing, without a camera or microphone.
I've tried everything and it still won't work
Try another up-to-date browser and restart the device. If the problem persists, you can contact us from the contact page.