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New Member
January 27, 2026
Question

Can't remove blurred background

  • January 27, 2026
  • 3 replies
  • 52 views

I cannot remove the blurred background on Zoom meetings. It isn’t the blur from the app settings - it’s a softer background blur. For context: I have a paid pro Zoom account and I’m on Mac Pro. I have checked my default computer cameras and the blur is gone - this is definitely a Zoom error and not a computer problem. I’ve also already:

  • gone through all the video settings and unchecked everything
  • restarted zoom
  • restarted my computer
  • reinstalled zoom with a computer restart
  • gone through my computer system library and searched for hidden zoom files to make sure all settings were totally removed + emptied trash
  • updated the newly installed zoom to best work with a silicon chip

After the update, the background was clear for less than a second then immediate reverted to soft blur. 

I’ve spent way too much time on this. I need a clear background for work. Help please.

    3 replies

    New Member
    January 28, 2026

    I have the same problem.  I just downloaded it onto a new computer and it’s very distracting.  I did not have this problem on my old laptop.

    MGSR
    Community Manager
    Community Manager
    January 28, 2026

    Hello there,

    Welcome to the Zoom Community! We're glad to have you here.

    If you’re using macOS, the background or blur effect may have been applied directly through your system rather than within Zoom. Once the meeting begins, look for the green video icon in the top-right corner of your Mac’s menu bar. Click the icon and uncheck “Background” to disable the virtual background or blur effect.

    Let me know if this helps or if you need further assistance.

    New Member
    January 29, 2026

    I'm not using a Mac. Do you have a solution for a PC laptop?

    Community Champion | Employee
    January 29, 2026

    Dear ​@MEMagill ,

    Could you please check, whether you have “Portrait Lightning” enabled, and if so, try turning it off?

    Otherwise, when it comes from background effects created by Windows:

    If you are on Windows 11 24H2, this could come from Windows Studio Effects, a new Windows feature.

    This documentation should help in turning off or modifying any effects:
    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-studio-effects-273c1fa8-2b3f-41b1-a587-7cc7a24b62d8