Chosen Solution
I replaced my rear facing camera with the new one offered here on ifixit and now the replacement will not focus. I can touch the screen in the camera app to change the focus but all it does is focus in and out and return to a blurry image. However, objects close to the phone will be totally in focus all the time. It’s like the focus is stuck in one position. Has anyone else had this issue, and if so what was the resolution?
It’s possible it’s a software issue, I would first try hard restarting the phone: Press and hold the Sleep/Wake and Home buttons simultaneously for at least ten seconds. After about ten seconds, you should see the Apple logo and can release the buttons. Otherwise, the autofocus is a physical process, so the camera would need to be able to move freely in its position for it to work. Is it possible you got something stuck between the camera module and the casing preventing it from moving? I would probably try removing the camera again, and make sure everything is cleared out and there’s no debris that would prevent it from focusing.
