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Flashing lights on front camera when covering with my finger

Hello I am using iPhone 18 Pro Max, iOS 27.0. I notice when I open the front camera and cover the Dynamic Island with my finger, there is continuous flashing lights onto my finger in the camera preview. Is it normal? I checked with my friends having older phone model and none of them have this issue. I am not convenient to visit an Apple Store to compare mine with the model phones, so just want to check here if anyone can see with their device. Thank you so much.

2 replies

You may be seeing infrared light from the TrueDepth system reflecting off your finger into the front camera. Apple notes that some cameras can detect this light. The dot projector is the probable sources of the dots. It’s used by the TrueDepth camera for Face ID. Apple Support may be able to confirm my suspicions. Good luck!


If you’re in the US, please call  1-800-MY-APPLE, or outside the US, consult the support articles below. In Canada, call 1-800-263-3394.


Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple



Expressing or conveying visual experiences effectively through these forums may be challenging. The underlying visual issue on your iPhone cannot be accurately diagnosed online. Factors such as your iPhone's specific settings, visual defects, and potential hardware problems cannot be assessed through this method. For more personalized and in-depth assistance, I recommend securing a Genius Bar Reservation and exploring the various support options provided by Apple.


Get a Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

When you encounter issues with your Apple devices, the Genius Bar at Apple Retail Stores is the go-to place for expert assistance. The Genius Bar is staffed by knowledgeable Apple employees, often referred to as "Geniuses," who can diagnose and resolve a wide range of hardware and software-related problems. To ensure personalized attention and a convenient visit, Apple provides the option to schedule a Genius Bar Reservation.


Contact Genius Bar.

Manage Reservations - My Reservations - Apple



Take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support:

  1. If you prefer face-to-face assistance, you can visit an Apple Retail Store. Apple Retail Stores are designed to provide a hands-on experience with Apple products and offer support services. You can speak with Apple specialists, known as "Creative Pros" in some locations, who can assist you with product-related inquiries or minor troubleshooting.
  2. In addition to Apple Retail Stores, there are Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs) that are authorized to perform repairs on Apple products. AASPs are independent businesses certified by Apple to offer service and repairs for various Apple devices.
  3. If visiting a physical location is not possible or convenient, you can seek support by contacting Apple Support. Apple offers various channels for support, including phone support, live chat, and email. The official Apple Support website provides information on how to reach out to Apple for assistance.


Finally, you can also start a repair log or track the status of existing repair --> Apple Repair and Repair Status Check - Official Apple Support


In summary, Apple provides customers with a range of support options, including the Genius Bar Reservation system, visits to Apple Retail Stores or Authorized Service Providers, and various channels to contact Apple Support for assistance with their products. These services aim to ensure that Apple users receive the necessary help and support whenever they encounter issues with their devices.