camera issue is hardware related ?

[him]

Xperia sp camera issue is software or hardware related ? every xsp owner knows the camera produces noisy images but I've noticed a focus problem too. In still photography the camera loses focus as soon as I press the capture button it also loses focus while recording videos. And the lens is also vulnerable to scratches I've used this phone for only 2 weeks and I can see visible scratches over the camera lens, no rough usage. From this I can assume this is a hardware issue and Sony compromised the camera for good gpu and cpu. Need clarification from Sony's side. Thanks.

[gadgetman1]

The noise problem is hardware related; it's the nasty image sensor.  The only way to improve the images would be more software noise reduction, which I personally don't want, there's enough smearing already.

I've noticed a similar focus issue but only when using the HDR feature.  Every pic comes out blurred over part of the image.

Normal images focus fine for me, as do movies.

The lens is recessed slightly so shouldn't get scratched much.  I use a hard plastic clip on case for the SP which makes the lens even more recessed.  So far no scratches...

[Cot88]

I experience the same issue even on my Xperia L

Gadgetman is right: the last xperia phones (SP,L,M...) have a low quality camera sensor.

But I believe that there is a bad sofware/firmware optimization because

- Xperia SP takes photos with colors too saturated (and Xpera L with same sensor not)

- Xperia L takes worse photos after last firmare update

- I have a focus issue on my xperia L only after last update.

[dm84]

I reckon it's software related as the z1 flagship uses the exmor rs sensor also

[him]

Someone said that removing the plastic cover inside the lens improved the camera quality if he is correct it seems more like a hardware issue.

[Zimar]

I believe the problem is software related. Since our phone is running on JB 4.1.2, the camera app is flawed.

I recently downloaded the native camera app for android 4.3 ( it is readily available..just google "android 4.3 camera app"), the picture quality of my snaps have improved dramatically.

Hope this helps.

[him]

While searching for android 4.3 camera app I got android 4.4 camera app. Yeah it does take decent photos. Let's hope Sony will fix this in android 4.3 update.

[Cot88]

So you installed 4.3/4.4 camera app on Xperia SP?

But we can install it like a normal apk without any other modification (like rooting)?

[him]

Yep. You can install it normally without rooting or anything. Just download the apk file.

[Zimar]

Yes and Yes.. Eagerly waiting for 4.3 update..