downhilljill

Q: Camera lost ability to focus

I have an iPhone 5 that has just recently lost its ability to focus. I've tried touching different areas of the screen and various zoom distances, without success. I've also turned the iPhone off and on several times. Any other suggestions? Maybe it's just getting old now... I've had it nearly 3 years.

iPhone 3G, Mac OS X (10.7.5), null

Posted on Sep 6, 2015 9:21 AM

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Q: Camera lost ability to focus

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  • by Jason L,Helpful

    Jason L Jason L Sep 7, 2015 1:39 PM in response to downhilljill
    Community Specialists
    Sep 7, 2015 1:39 PM in response to downhilljill

    Hey there downhilljill,

     

    The troubleshooting tips in the article below should help you resolve the issue with the camera on your iPhone 5 not focusing as expected.

    Get help with the camera on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

    Your photos are blurred or out of focus

    If your photos are blurred, out of focus, or have dark spots, try these steps:

    1. Make sure that the camera lens is clean. If you need to clean the lens, use a microfiber cloth. If you see dirt or debris inside the lens, take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Authorized Service Provider for more help.
    2. Make sure that there’s nothing blocking the camera lens. If you’re using a case, try removing it.
      With iPhone 6 Plus, a metallic case or magnetic lens could interfere with optical image stabilization. If you have a metallic case or magnetic lens attachment, try taking a picture without it. Then compare the quality.
    3. Adjust the focus by tapping on the person or object in the preview screen. You’ll see the screen pulse or briefly go in and out of focus as the camera adjusts. In photo mode, try to stay steady when adjusting the focus. If you move too far in any direction, the camera will automatically refocus to the center. In video mode, you can adjust the focus before you begin recording.
    4. If the color seems too bright, or you see double-exposures of moving objects, make sure that HDR is set to Auto or Off. Tap HDR at the top of the screen to choose a different setting.

     

    So long.

  • by downhilljill,

    downhilljill downhilljill Sep 7, 2015 1:41 PM in response to Jason L
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Sep 7, 2015 1:41 PM in response to Jason L

    Thanks for the suggestions, Jason L. I've tried all of these already, so I think I'll have to take it in so someone can check the hardware. It seems to be able to focus on subjects close to the camera but not far away.