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Galaxy S23 Blurry Close-up Camera Explained, Samsung Pledges Software Fix
Samsung’s latest Galaxy S23 series brings some of the best camera smartphones out there. Following the launch, it was noticed that the non-Ultra models of Samsung Galaxy S23 have some issues, causing blurry close-up shots, which are now officially acknowledged.
What’s the issue?
Some Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S23 Plus smartphone users noticed that the area around the subject looks a bit blurred when taking a close-up shot. The impact of this problem is limited to both low-end models of the lineup, while the Ultra remains issue-free.
What’s the reason?
Samsung disclosed through its community post that Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus use a 50-megapixel primary camera powered by AI features and machine learning. The blurry close-up problem causes due to the sensor’s bright aperture, which makes stunning Nitghtography possible.
Fix coming in the future!
Samsung not only explained the issue and shared the reason, but also confirmed that the blurry close-up shots problem on Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus is planned to improve (fix) in a future software update. However, when this software update will release, remains a question for now.
Workarounds
If you are experiencing this on your Samsung Galaxy S23 or S23+, there are a few solutions you can try:
- Try taking a picture from a bit further away; if the subject you are photographing is about 30 cm away, move back a hand’s width
- Try to take a photo holding the phone vertically; if you hold the phone horizontally or diagonally, the background may appear blurred.
Why S23 Ultra is unimpacted?
Galaxy S23 Ultra remains unimpacted from the blurry shot issue as its camera automatically switches to the wide-angle camera and activates the focus booster to prevent blur. But do note that the focus enhancer stops working in high-resolution image mode, possibly resulting in a blurry close-up.
Samsung’s One UI 8 must bring Android 16’s Advanced Protection features. Google is reportedly developing new Advanced Protection features that could debut in Android 16, which we want to arrive on Galaxy phones with One UI 8 update.
One UI 7 is based on Android 15, scheduled to enter Beta this year and Public early next year. Galaxy phones will get Android 16 update with One UI 8 update – only if Samsung keeps stuck to its current version strategy.
Google is working to develop Advanced Protection integration for Android 16. The program includes new settings and a new API that’ll allow apps to change their behavior depending on whether users have Advanced Protection enabled.
Android could add Samsung’s Auto Blocker-like features. The feature restricts apps to be installed on Galaxy phones from unauthorized sources. However, you can still sideload APKs by disabling the Auto Blocker from Privacy settings.
Android 16 could allow you to enroll in Advanced Protection through Settings. Once enrolled, you will have to keep your Google Account signed in, and the OS will not allow you to install apps from sources other than Play Store and Galaxy Store.
Mishaal discovered a new patch in the AOSP Gerrit, which refers to a “new Service for Android Advanced Protection Mode.” It will allow apps to see whether Advanced Protection is enabled on-device, and to adjust their behavior accordingly.
A comment on the patch from a Google engineer clarified that the service in question “allows users to enroll into ‘advanced protection’ via Settings, and for apps to check if the user is enrolled” using a new API.
When enabled, Android 16 could require additional authentication if you try to access certain content, like protected files or banking details. Details are unknown, but we expect to see the Advanced Protection added in the Android 16 version.
Samsung US partnered with Technogym to bring a fitness app to Daily+. The Technogym introduces personalized fitness routines with equipment-based and bodyweight exercises for a comprehensive home workout experience.
A study* says more than half of Americans say their favorite place to exercise is at home. Grabbing this opportunity, Samsung joined forces to launch a new Technogym app on the Daily+ platform for 2024 Smart TVs in the US.
Samsung says Technogym will offer more than 130 sessions to help you reach your goals. The fitness application on Samsung Daily+ is set to elevate your at-home workouts and makes it easy to keep wellness at the center of your routine.
Additionally, the app provides a broad and diverse library of video training sessions, including strength, yoga, cardio, Pilates, meditation and body weight-based exercises. It offers workouts for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
The platform will also refresh the workouts feed by regularly publishing new workouts. Users can also download the Technogym mobile app to access personalized profile and effortlessly track workout history across devices.
The newly released Technogym app on Samsung Daily+ is available in a basic version that’s free for all users, with the option for a premium subscription that provides access to exclusive, more in-depth workout content.
* Source: Statista: Home fitness in the United States – statistics & facts
Samsung has unveiled a new feature for its SmartThings platform called Home Insight at SDC24. This feature makes smart home management easier and more efficient by using artificial intelligence (AI).
Jaeyeon Jung, the Executive Vice President of SmartThings, explained that Home Insight is designed to understand how people live in their homes. It provides helpful home reports and personalized recommendations based on how you use your devices, your preferences, and even the time of year.
Samsung Home Insight makes it easier for people to manage their smart homes. For example, if you often forget to turn off the lights during the day, Home Insight can remind you to do so.
To make these features easy to access, Samsung introduced the Home Insight Widget, which will be available on the new Galaxy Tab S10. This means users can turn their tablets into a controller for managing various smart devices, all from one app.
It is expected that Samsung will soon expand the SmartThings Home Insight feature through a new update. Currently, you can access this feature in the Galaxy Tab S10 series.
Last month, Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab S10 series. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra features a massive 14.6-inch panel, while the Tab S10 Plus sports a 12.4-inch screen. Both models have premium Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays and offer a vibrant yet natural viewing experience.
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