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Apple released a new support document yesterday evening warning iPhone users that their devices' cameras may be damaged by certain vibration frequencies, such as those generated by high-performance motorcycles.
iPhone camera lenses with optical image stabilization (OIS) or closed-loop autofocus (AF) are vulnerable to this damage because they use gyroscopes and/or magnetic sensors to compensate for movement and vibration when taking photos or videos. writes Apple:
iPhone cameras: Apple makes recommendation
The OIS and closed-loop AF systems on iPhone are designed to last. However, as with many consumer electronics that include systems such as OIS, long-term direct exposure to strong vibrations within certain frequency ranges may affect the performance of these systems, resulting in a decrease in image quality of photos and videos. It is recommended that you avoid exposing your iPhone to strong vibrations for long periods of time.
Because of this risk, Apple recommends that users avoid attaching their iPhones directly to the frame or handlebars of such motorcycles, as the direct transmission of vibrations can be very strong. As a result, Cupertino recommends that users who attach their iPhones to lower-powered machines such as mopeds and electric scooters at least use a vibration-dampening mount to minimize the risk of damage. Apple has previously warned that OIS and closed-loop AF systems can also suffer from magnetic interference that affects camera performance when used with certain iPhone accessories. But vibrations are more likely to cause permanent damage to the systems.
Which iPhone models are at risk?
The potentially vulnerable devices include all iPhone models from the iPhone 7 onwards. However, the iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone 6S Plus are also candidates that can be damaged by such vibrations. (Photo by Daria Sakharova / Bigstockphoto)
