Blink Camera Keeps Saying Live View Failed (Fixed!)

James Beetie portrait pic

Blink cameras are one of the best home security solutions available today. The ‘Live View’ feature allows you to remotely access your camera’s footage in real-time from your smartphone. But what if the Live View fails?

When your Blink camera keeps saying “live view failed,” it indicates several issues ranging from a bad connection to dead batteries.

While it can be frustrating when you can’t monitor your home, Blink’s intuitive and user-friendly interface makes it easy to solve the “Live View Failed” error message.

Keep reading to get insights into getting your live view back.

Why Does Your Blink Camera Say “Live View Failed”?

When properly configured, Live View allows Blink users to see and hear the footage being recorded from the associated Blink Home Monitor app. However, like all technology, this feature can fail at times.

If you’re getting the message “Live View Failed” when you try to access your Blink camera live feed, the most likely culprits are dead batteries and intermittent connection. Your camera could be far from the Sync Module, or the router might need to restart. Whatever the cause, it can be annoying when you can’t monitor what is happening around your property or business premises.

Interestingly, modern Blink camera models come with a LED indicator light that flashes colors to relay operational status. If your Blink’s indicator light is solid red, the camera cannot establish a connection to your internet. It could also indicate that the camera has been disconnected from WiFi.

How To Fix the “Live View Failed” Error on Blink Camera

If you have trouble using the Live View feature, you can fix the underlying issue by leveraging several troubleshooting steps. Here are some effective ways to resolve the issues and continue accessing your live view feed.

1. Replacing the Batteries

Blink cameras have a reputation for their quality and excellent battery life. They come with two AA Lithium non-rechargeable batteries that can last up to 2 years. If your cameras have lasted over one year, the “Live View Failed” error message could be due to dead batteries. Replacing batteries can resolve the issue.

However, before replacing it, it is a good idea to check the battery level. To check if your batteries are dead, go to “Camera Settings” and select “General Settings.” If the battery strength is OK, you can rule out the battery is not the problem. Otherwise, you need to replace the batteries if the battery strength is “Needs Replacement.”

To replace Blink camera batteries, remove the back cover to access the battery compartment, then replace the batteries, matching up the + and – labeled on the camera with the + and – labeled on the batteries. After replacing, remember to secure the back cover. It is crucial to use the correct AA Lithium batteries. Energizer Ultimate Lithium or Duracell Ultra Lithium batteries are great choices, thanks to their long life and ability to endure inclement weather.

2. Resetting the Sync Module

The Sync Module is the hub your Blink cameras use to communicate and connect to the network. Resetting it can resolve most connection issues. However, before resetting, you can try power recycling, a less invasive approach that forces that Module to reconnect to the WiFi.

To power cycle, unplug your Sync Module from its power source and allow it to sit for about 10 seconds, then plug it back into the outlet. When it turns on, pair it with your router and check if the “Live View Failed” error has been resolved.

If your camera keeps saying “Live View Failed” after power cycling, reset the Sync Module. To reset, locate the reset button, then press and hold it until you see a red light flash. Release the button. The Sync Module will show a solid green alternating with flashing blue to indicate it is ready to reconnect. Next, configure your system, and you should be able to view live footage from the Blink Home Monitor app.

3. Restart Your Router

If you are constantly experiencing connection issues, your router might be the culprit. To power cycle your router, unplug it from the outlet for about a minute or push a button on the router. When it turns on, wait about two minutes for the internet service to be restored, then you can try using the Live View feature. If the problem was the internet, you should be able to view live feeds with no issues.

Note: Your Blink camera needs at least three signal strength bars to work properly. If your camera and router are far apart, you may need to bring them closer to one another.

4. Contact Blink Customer Support

If you can’t view the live feed after following the troubleshooting steps above, reach out to customer support. The experts will analyze your system to see what is causing the error and advise accordingly.

Conclusion

The Live View feature is vital for homeowners and business owners who want to monitor their property while away. Dead batteries and connection issues can prevent you from viewing live feeds remotely. Whatever the cause, the tips shared in this post will help you resolve the problem.

James Beetie portrait pic
About James Beetie

James - a self-confessed nerd - has owned smart home equipment for close to a decade, and he loves communicating the best ways of setting them up... and resolving the various bugs and issues that you'll no doubt come across!