How to Fix the iPhone 16 Pro Max Camera App Crashing

The Camera app crashing issue on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max seems to stem from a software bug that may be triggered by different interactions with the camera, including the use of the camera control button (the button that allows quick access to the camera from the lock screen or other parts of the interface).

Users have reported that when opening the camera from this button, the app either displays a black screen or crashes shortly afterward.

iOS 18 came pre-installed with the new iPhone 16 series, so the update is inevitable. These bugs lead to issues with resource management, causing the app to freeze or crash when launched from different access points, like the home screen or camera control button.

The problem could also be related to how the operating system manages camera processes and memory, especially when switching between apps or waking the camera from sleep mode. This may cause the app to crash due to improper resource handling or conflicts in the camera’s software components.

At this point, diagnostic tests have not revealed a hardware fault, so we’re convinced it is a software issue.

Apple has yet to publicly acknowledge the problem, though many users are hopeful for a fix in upcoming software updates like iOS 18.0.1.

The video below shows what exactly happens to the camera after trying to launch or take a photo:

🔑 Key Takeaways:

The iPhone 16 series is the only iPhone with a camera control button, so we’re all unfamiliar with how to fix related issues. However, we know Apple so well and its many generations of iPhones. We also know the tech giant is pretty simple and straightforward.

Here are some reliable methods to troubleshoot the iPhone 16 Pro Max camera issue.

The simplest fix is to restart your phone, which temporarily resolves the crash for many users. To do this:

• Press and release the volume up button.

• Press and release the volume down button.

• Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears .

While this method works, the problem often returns after some time, so it’s a short-term fix.

Since the issue appears to be software-related, ensuring your iPhone has the latest iOS update can help. Apple is expected to release updates that address this issue (e.g., iOS 18.0.1). To check for updates:

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update.

• Download and install any available updates.

While iPhones do not have a straightforward way to clear app caches like Android devices, you can try resetting certain settings, which can help.

To do this:

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.

• Select Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t delete your data but will reset settings that may be causing the crashes.

It might surprise you, but a phone case can sometimes interfere with the camera, particularly if it’s a snug or poorly fitted case. Cases that press against the camera area or block sensors may cause hardware-related issues that exacerbate software bugs.

Choosing a well-designed, slim iPhone 16 Pro Max case, such as Thinborne’s Aramid Fiber Case, ensures no interference with your camera’s functionality. A well-fitted case not only protects your phone but also ensures that the sensors and lenses are unobstructed, helping avoid any external causes of the crash.

Moreover, using a MagSafe-compatible case can prevent interruptions when using certain camera features like portrait mode or video stabilization.

If none of the above works, performing a factory restore might solve the issue. First, back up your iPhone or your computer to iCloud. Then:

• Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.

• Select Erase All Content and Settings to restore the phone to factory settings.

After the restore, you can set up your phone again or restore from a backup to retain your data.

If the camera app continues to crash after trying these methods, it’s time to reach out to Apple Support. You may need a hardware diagnosis, and, in rare cases, a replacement device if your iPhone is still under warranty.