iOS 18.2 Reportedly Causing Widespread Camera and Flashlight Issues on iPhones

The iOS 18.2 update has sparked frustration among iPhone users worldwide, with widespread complaints about severe malfunctions in the camera and flashlight functions. Users across various forums, including Reddit and X, have detailed their struggles, pointing to the update as the root cause of the issues.

According to affected users, the camera app frequently fails to operate, showing only a black screen. A user, Cryptographer64, noted that it often takes reopening the app two or three times for the camera to work. The issue is not confined to the native camera app, as third-party apps like Snapchat are also affected. This problem extends to the flashlight feature, which either refuses to activate or takes an unusually long time—sometimes up to 10 seconds—to respond.

For some users, the experience has been particularly frustrating. A user shared that after consulting Apple support, they were advised to perform a factory reset. However, this resulted in their iPhone becoming completely bricked due to an error during the reset process. Despite using the original Apple-provided cable, the user claims that Apple attributed the issue to faulty hardware or accessories, a response some users have labeled as “gaslighting.”

Another user, who recently purchased a new iPhone, initially believed the problem was hardware-related until they found discussions highlighting similar complaints linked to iOS 18.2. Reports consistently describe a black screen when launching the camera, whether from the lock screen, control center, or the app itself.

Many users are now calling on Apple to address the issues promptly. While some have managed to resolve the glitches, others remain without solutions. It is currently unclear whether the problems are limited to specific iPhone models or if they span multiple devices.

As the situation develops, users are advised to wait for potential fixes from Apple. The iOS 18.2 update has left a noticeable mark, with many labeling it one of the most problematic updates in the company’s history. Further updates on the matter are anticipated.