Symptoms
- Visible crack in the small glass over the camera lens
- Photos may show streaks, haze, or artifacts near the crack
- Camera bump or ring around the lens may also be damaged
- Rest of the phone and screen may be undamaged
Likely causes
- CommonImpact from a drop landing on the camera areaThe raised camera bump on many phones takes the brunt of a fall.
- PossiblePressure from a tight case or pocketA poorly fitted case can put stress on the small lens cover glass.
What to do
- Cover the cracked area with tape to prevent glass shards from falling into the camera opening.
- Avoid using the camera until you've inspected it, since loose glass can scratch the lens further.
- Test photos to see if the crack visibly affects image quality.
- Avoid blowing forcefully on the crack to clear debris; use compressed air from a safe distance instead.
- Get a repair quote, since lens cover glass replacement is a routine, well-understood repair on most phones.
- Consider a lens protector for the replacement glass to prevent future cracks.
Tools and parts
- Clear tape
- Compressed air (optional)
Camera lens cover glass or lens protectorSearch: “camera lens cover glass replacement for [your phone model]”
When to call a pro
See a repair shop if the crack affects photo quality or if glass fragments seem loose near the lens opening.
Safety
Use caution
Broken glass fragments near the lens can be sharp and can fall into the camera opening; handle carefully and cover it.