Why can't I join a meeting on Safari?

If you're using Safari on an Apple device with Lockdown Mode enabled, Ovida can't access your camera and microphone. You'll see a message in the meeting lobby explaining the issue.

Lockdown Mode is an Apple security feature that limits how websites can use device hardware. It blocks Ovida from using your camera and microphone, which means you can't join meetings while it's active.

What the message looks like

Example placeholder:

"Camera and microphone access is blocked by Safari's Lockdown Mode. Turn off Lockdown Mode for this site or use a different browser to join."

How to fix it

You have three options, from most targeted to most disruptive.

Option 1: Allow Ovida in Lockdown Mode (recommended)

You can keep Lockdown Mode on for the rest of your browsing and just allow Ovida specifically.

On iPhone or iPad (iOS):

1. Open Settings > Apps > Safari.

2. Find the Lockdown Mode or Advanced section.

3. Add an exception for the Ovida site.

On Mac (macOS):

1. Open Safari > Settings > Websites (or Privacy, depending on macOS version).

2. Find Lockdown Mode in the sidebar.

3. Add an exception for the Ovida site.

ℹ The exact menu names vary by iOS and macOS version. If you can't find the option, search "Lockdown Mode exception" in your device's settings.

Option 2: Use a different browser

Open Ovida in Chrome or Edge instead. These browsers don't have Lockdown Mode and will work normally.

Option 3: Turn off Lockdown Mode entirely

Only do this if you're comfortable disabling the feature for all sites.

On iPhone or iPad: Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode > toggle off.

On Mac: System Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode > Turn Off Lockdown Mode.

Restart Safari after making the change.

If you still can't join

If you've tried the steps above and still see a camera or microphone error, see "How do I grant Ovida access to my camera and microphone?" for general troubleshooting. If the issue persists, contact support@ovida.org.