Galaxy phone or tablet camera does not focus on the subject

When you want to take a picture, your camera should focus on a subject when you touch it on the screen. If Tracking auto-focus is on, your camera will be locked to that person or item for 3 seconds. Because it is focusing on one thing, it may seem like the camera is not focusing on the entire scene. This can be prevented by turning off Tracking auto-focus. Cleaning the camera's lens will also help.

Hand holding the Galaxy S25 Ultra, displaying a blurred photo of a person seated on the screen.

Galaxy phone or tablet camera does not focus on the subject

Clean the lenses.

Dust or debris can interfere with autofocus. Clean all the lenses with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.

Move the camera.

If you're aiming for a close-up, try backing away and zooming in. Each lens has a different range of focus.

Turn off Tracking auto-focus.

Open the Camera app and tap the Settings icon. For the Galaxy S25 series and devices running One UI 7.0 and above, tap the Quick controls icon (the four dots), and then tap the Settings icon. Tap the switch next to Tracking auto-focus to turn it off.

Reset the camera.

If the camera still isn't focusing, you should try resetting the camera to its default settings. Swipe to and tap Reset settings from the Camera Settings.

Make sure your software is up to date.

Performing a software update can resolve issues and problems with apps, including your camera.

Listen to the lens.

The focus on the camera is controlled by a tiny mechanism. Some slight clicking and whirring is normal, but if you hear any grinding, your device may require service.

Use your phone in Safe mode.

You can try using Safe mode to figure out if recently installed apps are causing an issue with your camera's focus.

Press and hold the Power button and Side button. On phones without a dedicated Power button, you can swipe down from the top right of the screen to open Quick settings, and then tap the Power icon. Touch and hold the Power off icon, and then tap Safe mode when it appears.

Your phone will restart and “Safe mode” will be displayed in the bottom left corner of the screen. Check your camera's focus and remove any recently installed apps if needed. Restart your phone to exit Safe mode.

Request service.

If your camera still has issues focusing, please visit a Samsung walk-in service center or you can schedule a repair service online.

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Galaxy phone or tablet camera does not focus on the subject

When you want to take a picture, your camera should focus on a subject when you touch it on the screen. If Tracking Auto-focus is on, your camera will be locked to that person or item for 3 seconds. Because it is focusing on one thing, it may seem like the camera is not focusing on the entire scene. This can be prevented by turning off Tracking AF.

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