Android Screenshot Not Working? Try These Fixes

It's frustrating when you need to take a screenshot quickly, and your phone refuses to cooperate. The Android screenshot function can stop working in several equally frustrating ways. Such issues can occur at random times, or during specific situations, such as when you use work apps on your personal phone.

What Android Screenshot Issues Look Like

When the Android screenshot function doesn't work on your phone or tablet, one of several things might happen:

• You see error messages, such as "Can't take screenshot due to security policy" or "Can't take screenshot due to limited storage space."
• You use a physical method to take a screenshot (either swiping or pressing a combination of keys), but the image isn't captured.
• You use Google Assistant to take a screenshot, but the image isn't captured.

Cause of Can't Take a Screenshot Issues

If your phone was issued by work or school, it may have certain restrictions, such as not allowing screenshots. Even if you only use some work or school accounts, those specific functions may disallow screenshots.

Another cause is Chrome Incognito Mode, which doesn't allow screenshots. The problem could also be due to a mechanical issue, such as a broken button, or low storage availability.

How to Fix Android Screenshots Not Working

Because multiple causes may stand in the way of you taking screenshots on Android, it isn't always the simplest thing to fix. The solutions tend to be straightforward. After you figure out the cause, you'll be taking screenshots in no time. These tips might help when your screenshot is not working.

1. Check for known issues. If your device was issued by your school, work, or anyone else, check with them first to see if the problem is a known issue. If it is, they might be able to resolve it for you.

   Be prepared for a possible "no" when you ask your school or work IT to fix a security issue. It might be set that way for a reason.

2. Delete an Android app you recently installed. If you recently installed an app that might be a problem, such as something work-related or designed to control or restrict your phone, uninstall it and see if you're able to take screenshots.

3. Disable the Chrome Incognito Mode. Tap the Tabs icon and tap the X at the top of each Incognito tab to close it. Open a new tab in regular mode and then take a screenshot. 

4. Take a screenshot on Android using an alternate method. The primary methods are pressing a combination of keys on the device, using the swipe function, or using Google Assistant.

   To use Google Assistant (GA) to capture a screenshot, display the image you want to capture on the screen. Then say OK, Google, take a screenshot. GA responds with OK, touch to continue. It shows a smaller version of the screen image and options for sending it. Choose the method you want to use for sending the image. 

5. Check the device's storage. To address messages like, "Couldn't save screenshot. Storage may be in use," or, "Can't take screenshot due to limited storage space," reboot the device. Use the Android storage manager to free up space. If that doesn't help, try one of the best cleaners for Android phones to clear junk files, or move your files to either cloud storage or an SD card.

6. Factory reset the Android device. This is a last-resort step.

   This step erases your data. Back up the contacts, images, videos, files, and other items you want to keep.

7. Consult a professional. Hopefully, one of these tips has helped you get your screenshot feature working again. If not, it might be time to take your device to a professional.