Why has my camera quality suddenly turned blurry and pixelated?

[AC Question]

So I have a HTC 816, have had it for about 6 months now. It used to take amazing photos, but after not using the camera for a little while it is now blurry and unfocused. All camera settings are normal and reset to default after changing it around a bit. I've searched many forums and websites but I cannot find a straight answer to how to fix it. is there an upgrade? Can I get it serviced? this is quite frustrating as I am a photography/art student and normally just use my phone when I do not have my camera with me. The front or 'selfie' camera works just fine and it's way to awkward to use that all the time!

 

[Rukbat]

Take a careful look at the rear camera lens with a strong light and a magnifying glass. Is there any dirt on it?

If not, the camera itself is about $75 (plus labor to install it).

 

[ughbritney]

I can't see any kind of dirt on it (I've cleaned it numerous times), although the lens does look kind of damaged from dropping the phone multiple times. Can I just get the lens cover replaced?

 

[ughbritney]

Just answered my own question with more googling on old threads. Apparently most HTC cameras get a build up of 'grime' and can be cleaned with a drop of water and then scratched gently with a credit card then followed by being wiped with soft cleaning cloth (like one you would use for your glasses) tada.

 

[Rukbat]

Now there's an example of how not to design a phone camera.

Glad you got it cleaned up.