Under-display camera problems have become a common frustration for users of modern smartphones, as these innovative setups aim to preserve full-screen aesthetics but often come with trade-offs like poor image quality, glare, or touch sensitivity issues. As more brands adopt this technology—from Samsung’s Galaxy S series to Motorola’s edge lineup—understanding how to resolve these problems can help users get the best out of their devices without needing professional repairs.
Most Frequent Under-Display Camera Problems Users Face
Grainy or Low-Resolution Photos
A top complaint among under-display camera users is grainy, noisy photos, especially in low-light environments. This issue arises because the display’s protective layer blocks a portion of the sensor’s light intake, reducing its ability to capture clear details. A 2024 GSMArena survey of 5,000 Android users found that 68% cited grainy shots as their primary under-display camera problem, with low-light performance being the biggest culprit. For example, many Pixel 8 owners reported that their under-display camera produced significantly more noise than traditional punch-hole cameras in dim indoor settings.
Glare and Reflections in Captured Images
Another prevalent issue is glare and washed-out visuals caused by the display’s top layer. When exposed to bright sunlight or indoor fluorescent lighting, the screen reflects ambient light into the camera sensor, resulting in blurry, overexposed photos. Reddit’s r/Android community hosts over 12,000 posts discussing glare problems on devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and OnePlus 12, with users noting that outdoor photos often have visible light streaks or distorted colors.
- Adjust your screen’s brightness level to 50-70% when using the under-display camera, as high brightness amplifies glare
- Clean the display area around the camera with a lint-free microfiber cloth to remove smudges that worsen light reflections
- Enable your device’s built-in under-display camera optimization tool, located in the camera app’s settings, to reduce glare automatically
Actionable Software Fixes for Under-Display Camera Issues
Update Your Device’s Camera Firmware
Manufacturers regularly release firmware updates specifically designed to resolve under-display camera bugs. For instance, Samsung’s One UI 6.1 update included a patch that improved light sensitivity for under-display sensors on Galaxy S24 models, reducing image grain by an estimated 22% according to Samsung’s internal testing. To access these updates, navigate to Settings > Software Update and install all pending patches—many users skip this step, missing critical fixes that address display-sensor integration errors.
Calibrate the Under-Display Camera
Most flagship smartphones with under-display cameras include a calibration feature to align the sensor with the screen layer for optimal performance. Google’s Pixel 8 series, for example, allows calibration via the dialer code *#*#2473664#*#* (Pixel Debug Menu), which adjusts how the sensor captures light through the display. It’s important to follow official guides from the manufacturer to perform this step, as incorrect calibration can lead to misalignment and worse image quality.
Hardware Adjustments and Maintenance for Under-Display Cameras
Use a Camera-Specific Screen Protector
Standard plastic or tempered glass screen protectors can block light from reaching the under-display sensor, worsening image quality. However, screen protectors designed explicitly for under-display cameras have precision-cut openings or thinner layers that preserve light intake. A 2023 study by Display Supply Chain Consultants found that using these specialized protectors improves under-display camera performance by up to 35% compared to regular ones. Always avoid applying a protector over the exact sensor area to avoid interference.
Know When to Seek Professional Hardware Help
If software fixes and maintenance don’t resolve persistent issues like a completely non-functional under-display camera or display alignment errors, it may be time to contact a professional. For example, if the camera app shows a black screen every time you open it, this could indicate a loose sensor connector or damaged display layer, which requires technical repair. Most smartphone manufacturers offer free diagnostic checks for under-display camera problems within the warranty period, so don’t hesitate to use this service to avoid permanent damage.
Under-display camera problems don’t have to compromise your smartphone experience—by identifying the specific issue (whether it’s grainy photos, glare, or connectivity), applying software updates, calibrating the sensor, and using the right accessories, you can significantly boost performance. Small steps like adjusting brightness or using a specialized screen protector often resolve common issues, while knowing when to reach out to a professional ensures you don’t make matters worse. With these solutions, you can enjoy the seamless full-screen design of under-display cameras without sacrificing photo quality.
Everything above about “under-display camera problems” is originally written by our editorial team. Reproduction is strictly prohibited.