A QUICK CHECK BEFORE HELLO.
Camera shy? Or just a setting?
If your camera preview won’t open, start here. Check your device before joining the queue so you can focus on the conversation.
18+ · A connection depends on someone else being available.
First, find the step that stopped
If you cannot see your own preview, check device access. If preview works but you are still waiting, that can simply mean no other person is available. If matching starts but video does not arrive, the connection may have failed; leave the attempt before retrying.
Camera and microphone permission
In Chrome, open the controls beside the site address and check the site’s camera and microphone permissions. If your computer asks for separate operating-system permission, review that too. Reload the page after changing permission, then start the preview again.
On Safari for Mac, open Safari → Settings → Websites. Select Camera and Microphone, then review the setting for afterpartychat.app. Use Ask or Allow as appropriate. The labels and permission screens can differ on a phone; use the browser’s help for your device.
- Confirm the browser is using the camera and microphone you intended.
- Close another app that might be occupying the camera.
- Check the microphone’s hardware mute switch and your headphones.
Preview works, but a call does not
Stay on the video page while waiting. You still need another person in the queue to make a connection. A quiet queue is different from a permission error.
If a call fails after matching, leave and retry on a stable connection. A managed workplace or school network can restrict access. Don’t disable security controls; use a network you are allowed to use or choose text chat.
Stay in control
Leaving the video session stops that session’s camera and microphone tracks. You can also close the tab or revoke site permission in your browser. You can use our separate text chat without camera access.
If a problem continues, note your browser, device, and the error shown. Never include private conversation content or personal documents in a support request.
Official browser help
Whenever you’re ready.
Reviewed and updated: 2026-09-07 · Afterparty