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Open the Camera app from the Chromebook launcher to take a photo or record video. If the camera will not open in an app or website, check the Chromebook’s camera access controls, the app’s permission, and—if your model has one—the physical camera switch. Samsung Chromebook hardware varies by model, so camera features and controls may differ.
Open the built-in Camera app
- Open the Chromebook launcher.
- Select Camera.
- Use the controls available in the app to take a photo or record video.
Available features depend on the Chromebook’s hardware. ChromeOS can switch to an external camera when one is connected, or between two built-in cameras on devices that have them. See Google’s guide to camera features on a Chromebook.
Check whether the camera is physically blocked
Some Chromebooks have a physical camera privacy switch or shutter; others do not. If your Samsung model has one, make sure it is enabled or open. Google notes that a physical camera switch must be turned on for the camera to work. Do not assume your model has a switch—check the device itself or its documentation. Google’s camera, microphone, and location settings guide explains this requirement.
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Allow camera access in ChromeOS
ChromeOS has a device-level camera control and permissions for individual apps. If device-level access is off, apps cannot use the camera; an app can also be blocked separately while device access is on.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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- Open the status area, then select Settings.
- Go to Privacy and security > Privacy controls.
- Turn on Camera access.
- Check that the app you want to use is allowed to access the camera.
ChromeOS labels and menu locations can change between updates. If the path differs on your Chromebook, search Settings for “camera.” Details are in Google’s camera privacy settings instructions.
Fix camera access for a website in Chrome
If the Camera app works but a website cannot use the camera, check that site’s permission in Chrome. Website permission is separate from the Chromebook’s device-level setting: a site can be allowed, denied, or set to ask. Review the site’s camera permission in Chrome’s site settings, change it if needed, and refresh the page. Google explains the available options in Change site settings permissions.
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
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Find out whether the problem is app-specific
- Restart the Chromebook.
- Test the camera in another camera-using app, such as Google Meet.
- If the camera works in the other app, uninstall and reinstall the app where it fails.
This is a basic way to separate an app problem from a broader camera-access problem, not a definitive hardware test. Google’s hardware and system troubleshooting guide recommends restarting, testing another app, and reinstalling an app when the issue is isolated to it.
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If the built-in camera remains unusable or does not meet your needs, an external USB webcam may be an option. ChromeOS supports switching to an external camera, but compatibility and connector requirements depend on the webcam and the exact Chromebook. Before buying one, check your model’s available ports and the accessory’s stated ChromeOS support. Google documents camera switching in its Chromebook camera features guide.
Rank #3
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- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Samsung camera specifications vary by model
Samsung Chromebook models do not all share the same camera resolution, arrangement, or privacy controls. For example, Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook Go Wi-Fi specification sheet lists a 1 MP (720p HD) webcam for that model. That specification should not be generalized to other Samsung Chromebooks.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
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- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
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- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
