Google Pixel 3 users are reporting shaky photo and video stabilization

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By Stephen Lambrechts
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Go home, Pixel 3 camera – you're drunk

Google Pixel 3
(Image credit: TechRadar)

The Google Pixel 3 is often praised as one of the best camera phones that's been produced to date, but a new issue is leading many users to complain of violent camera shaking, flickering and autofocus problems in Google's community forums.

As noted by Android Police, Pixel 3 owners are reporting camera stuttering and shaky image capture, even when the phone itself is completely still, as demonstrated in this video from YouTube user Julius Gunnilstam:

Pixel 3 Camera Shaking (OIS Problem?) - YouTube
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As you can see, the Google Pixel 3's camera sensor appears to be shaking around uncontrollably, despite the fact that the phone itself is not moving at all. This has led many to believe that the root of the problem lies in the Pixel 3's camera stabilization.

At present, it's unknown whether the issue is related to the Pixel 3's hardware, or if the autofocus and optical image stabilization are going haywire due to a software problem. 

If the problem is indeed caused by the latter, then Google might be able to resolve it via a software update. If not, those experiencing the issue may end up having to contact Google about a replacement.

Stephen Lambrechts
Stephen Lambrechts
Senior Journalist, Phones and Entertainment

Stephen primarily covers phones and entertainment for TechRadar's Australian team, and has written professionally across the categories of tech, film, television and gaming in both print and online for over a decade. He's obsessed with smartphones, televisions, consoles and gaming PCs, and has a deep-seated desire to consume all forms of media at the highest quality possible. 


He's also likely to talk a person’s ear off at the mere mention of Android, cats, retro sneaker releases, travelling and physical media, such as vinyl and boutique Blu-ray releases. Right now, he's most excited about QD-OLED technology, The Batman and Hellblade 2: Senua's Saga.