Otherwise you could experience all kinds of problems

Jan 27, 2021 15:05 GMT  ·  By

Apple has shipped iOS 14.4, and one of the most important changes is the addition of a new warning displayed on the iPhone 12 whenever a non-genuine camera is detected.

The iPhone now displays a warning that the camera cannot be verified, and in a support document, the Cupertino-based tech giant explains users could experience all kinds of issue when using a non-genuine part.

For example, the camera might fail to focus or take images that aren’t sharp, third-party apps could freeze or crash, while the Portrait mode could take photos with the subject out of focus.

“Only technicians who have completed Apple service training and who use Apple genuine parts and tools should replace iPhone cameras. These service providers include: Apple, Apple Authorized Service Providers, or Independent Repair Providers using genuine Apple parts,” Apple explains.

“Replacements not performed by Apple, authorized service providers, or certified technicians might not follow proper safety and repair procedures and could result in improper function or issues with image quality or overall device safety. Apple camera parts are designed to fit precisely within the device. Additionally, repairs that don't properly replace screws or cowlings might leave behind loose parts that could damage the battery, cause overheating, or result in injury.”

Camera warning exclusive to iPhone 12

As for the reasons some people go for non-genuine parts, it all comes down to costs. It goes without saying that Apple’s repair centers charge more for camera fixes, though on the other hand, they also guarantee everything is in tip-top shape with no issue whatsoever.

The new iOS 14 camera warning is only displayed on the iPhone 12 series, so if you use a non-genuine camera on an older iPhone model, you shouldn’t see any notification after installing the latest operating system update.