According to a recent support document that Apple has published, it is now confirmed that particular vibration frequencies can permanently damage iPhone cameras. This is something that would definitely raise concerns among iPhone users who share an undeniable love for high-powered motorbikes.
Particularly, the iPhones that come with a camera installation with Optical Image Stabilization or Autofocus on offer are more prone to damage as they rely on magnetic sensors and an internal gyroscope for ensuring the best stability to counteract the movement of the device and overall camera performance.
According to Apple, exposing the device to “high-amplitude vibrations within certain frequency ranges” can possibly bring down device performance.
“The OIS and closed-loop AF systems in iPhone are designed for durability. However, as is the case with many consumer electronics that include systems like OIS, long-term direct exposure to high-amplitude vibrations within certain frequency ranges may degrade the performance of these systems and lead to reduced image quality for photos and videos. It is recommended to avoid exposing your iPhone to extended high-amplitude vibrations.”
If Apple’s claims are to be believed, the same issue happens with various other consumer tech devices with a similar system on offer, and it’s nothing specific to the iPhones. The manufacturer recommends that you must not directly strap the device to the handlebars or chassis of your vehicle because this means directly putting your iPhone in contact with the damaging vibrations. If you have to mount the device at all, consider reducing the risk with the help of a vibration dampening mount capable of absorbing a significant amount of vibrations.
This topic seems a bit bizarre to cover for Apple suddenly, making us all believe that the number of official support requests or complaints related to the damages caused to the iPhones due to such exposure is increasing. If this makes you wonder whether your device might get affected by such vibrations or not, it is worth noting OIS and AF are featured in all the iPhone models starting from iPhone 7. So if you have one of those devices, there is a strong possibility for that.