Camera Focus issues / SNAP sounds

[AustinTech]

I've noticed my Pixel XL has, at times, a difficult time focusing. When it happens the phone either doesn't focus at all or tries to find focus while making a sharp snapping/whipping sound. I've got a YouTube video I shot with my S7 showing the issue. The focus on the s7 is fine, it looks a little out of focus because it's looking at the Pixel screen that simply cannot find focus.

Disappointing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UCWo9y4sGk

 

[anon(596177)]

I've noticed my Pixel XL has, at times, a difficult time focusing. When it happens the phone either doesn't focus at all or tries to find focus while making a sharp snapping/whipping sound. I've got a YouTube video I shot with my S7 showing the issue. The focus on the s7 is fine, it looks a little out of focus because it's looking at the Pixel screen that simply cannot find focus.

Disappointing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UCWo9y4sGk

I just read about this today, you may find it an interesting read and it may be the solution to your problem.

http://phandroid.com/2016/11/15/google-pixel-xl-camera-autofocus-issues/

 

[miyanc]

i see a case, but it doesnt seem like a spigen rugged armor. I wonder if that rattle i hear is that foretelling of things to come.

 

[anon(596177)]

i see a case, but it doesnt seem like a spigen rugged armor. I wonder if that rattle i hear is that foretelling of things to come.

It doesnt have to be a spigen rugged armor. The main point of the article is that dust can collect around the laser focus port and that causes issues with autofocus not working correctly. The Spigen rugged armor was called out because it is a popular TPU case and the cutout for the autofocus sensor (the smaller cutout separate from the lense and LED cutout) is so small that it makes it easy to collect dust while being difficult to get in to clean without removing the case.

Basically, if the autofocus worked before and no longer works correctly, its likely got dust impeding the laser focus sensor and just needs to be cleaned. A microfiber cloth and some compressed air (carefully) should do the trick.

Also, if you are hearing a rattle if it is a subtle rattle it is likely fine. I cant remember what exactly it was, but there is a camera component on the 6p that rattles as well if you shake the phone, I assume the same is true for the Pixel.