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Answer
Can a PWA access the camera?
Short answer
Yes. A PWA can access the camera, microphone, geolocation and file system through the same Web APIs a regular website uses (getUserMedia, showOpenFilePicker, Geolocation). Every capability requires explicit user permission and works cross-platform, though a few APIs (Bluetooth, USB, NFC) are still Chromium-only.
By InstantPWA engineering·Reviewed July 7, 2026
What works everywhere
Camera and microphone (getUserMedia), geolocation, notifications, share sheet, clipboard read/write, screen wake lock.
What is Chromium-only
File System Access API (full read/write), Web Bluetooth, Web USB, Web NFC, contact picker.
iOS Safari caveats
getUserMedia works but requires HTTPS and a user gesture. Screen recording via getDisplayMedia is desktop-Safari only.
Related
What is a PWA?
A PWA (Progressive Web App) is a regular website that meets three technical criteria — HTTPS, a Web App Manifest and a service worker — so browsers let visitors install it on their home screen. Once installed, it launches like a native app, works offline and can send push notifications.
Do PWAs work on iPhone?
Yes. Since iOS 16.4 (March 2023), iPhone and iPad support the full PWA feature set: install to home screen from Safari, standalone launch, offline via service worker, and Web Push notifications. The install step is manual — Safari does not show a browser prompt; users must tap Share → Add to Home Screen.