jittery image on iPhone before taking

Why does my iPhone SE, 3rd gen jitter while taking images?


What is going on?

It appears the camera is failing to auto-focus. Can't settle down to take a focussed image.

Hardware problem? Known failure for this model?

iPhone SE, iOS 18

Posted on Nov 28, 2025 9:26 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 28, 2025 9:59 AM

Hello~ Likely you have a hardware issue that needs repair because an iPhone camera can shake due to a possible hardware issue with the optical image stabilization (OIS) or a possible software glitch.


Try a forced restart and if no joy make an appointment with Apple to have your iPhone checked. Afterward you can make an informed decision on how to proceed.


Force restart iPhone - Apple Support


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


Find Locations


~Katana-San~

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 28, 2025 9:59 AM in response to Brian Schreiber

Hello~ Likely you have a hardware issue that needs repair because an iPhone camera can shake due to a possible hardware issue with the optical image stabilization (OIS) or a possible software glitch.


Try a forced restart and if no joy make an appointment with Apple to have your iPhone checked. Afterward you can make an informed decision on how to proceed.


Force restart iPhone - Apple Support


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


Find Locations


~Katana-San~

Nov 28, 2025 9:53 AM in response to Brian Schreiber

All failures are possible, though home button phone cameras are usually very robust. Dropping, fastening to the bars of bikes, or just bad luck can cause them to fail.

It is not worth having it repaired, the cost will be prohibitive on a phone worth about $50.

Before disposing of it, first try a forced restart https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/force-restart-iphone-iph8903c3ee6/ios


jittery image on iPhone before taking

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.