Why strong magnets can hinder the iPhone’s rear-facing camera
Strong magnets in popular iPhone accessories such as phone grips, car mounts, power banks and ring lights can interfere with the rear-facing camera on Apple's latest iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. This is a significant problem because these accessories could degrade the quality of photos taken with the phone's advanced 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera, which features variable aperture and low-light capabilities designed for professional-grade imaging.
The interference occurs because the iPhone's camera relies on two magnet-sensitive technologies: optical image stabilisation (OIS), which uses a gyroscope to counteract hand movement, and closed-loop autofocus, which uses accelerometers to maintain focus. When strong magnetic fields from accessories are placed too close to the camera lens, these sensors become less accurate or may be disabled entirely, potentially causing blurry photographs. Apple recommends users avoid magnetic accessories, particularly latch folio covers and car mounts positioned near the camera, to preserve image quality.
- Magnetic phone accessories can blur iPhone 18 Pro photos
- Interferes with camera stabilisation sensors
- Avoid placing magnets near the camera
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Apple's latest iPhone 18 Pro models have encountered a problem with popular accessories. Strong magnets found in phone grips, car mounts, power banks and ring lights can interfere with the rear-facing camera and potentially reduce photo quality.
The camera has technology to steady images and automatically focus them, both of which rely on sensors that respond to magnetic fields. When strong magnets from accessories are positioned near the lens, these sensors become less accurate or may stop working, which can cause blurry or poorly focused photographs.
This matters because people increasingly rely on their phone's camera for important photographs. Apple has recommended that users keep magnetic accessories, such as certain phone cases and car mounts, away from the camera.