Adapted by:
Ricardo Aguilar
WriterMobile tech writer and analyst. I studied Psychology, but I've been working in the consumer tech field for the last 10 years. Interested in motor projects and new forms of mobility.
Alba Mora
WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
Lately, I’ve been getting a common question from friends who have just bought new phones and accidentally shaken them a little too vigorously. They wonder why it sounds like something is loose inside. The volume of this noise can vary depending on the size and arrangement of the cameras.
For instance, the iPhone 16 Pro has a soft rattle, while the Pixel 9 Pro sounds much louder. In both cases, the reason behind this phenomenon is actually good news. It means the camera is of good quality.
A rattling sound. Hearing a noise coming from inside your phone when shaking it can be concerning. In fact, this topic has sparked a lot of discussion on forums like Reddit. However, there’s a straightforward explanation for why your phone emits a rattling sound when shaken. It’s due to the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
OIS is a feature found in many modern phones, and you should be happy if your device has it. It’s perfectly normal for the phone to make this sound under certain conditions, such as when shaking it.
What exactly is OIS? There are two primary methods of stabilizing an image: physically and digitally. The digital method involves cropping the image to reduce shakiness. Meanwhile, the physical method uses a mechanical system to compensate for the slight movements you make when holding the phone.
The OIS system typically consists of a series of gyroscopes and electromagnetic actuators. These components work together to counteract micro-movements in the camera area. For example, if you tilt the phone to the left, the OIS will shift the camera to the right to stabilize the image. This compensation happens in all directions.
Not all OIS systems are the same. The iPhone 16 Pro sounds quieter than other phones because it employs a different approach. Instead of using a traditional lens-based system, it utilizes a stabilized sensor. This means that the movement occurs in the sensor itself rather than in the lens.
This method is more accurate than traditional OIS. It’s also faster and especially beneficial for larger sensors. However, this technology hasn’t been widely standardized yet because it’s more expensive to implement.
Advantages. OIS enables users to capture sharper photographs in several lighting conditions, particularly in low light. With minimal camera shake, the camera can reduce the shutter speed, functioning almost as if it were mounted on a tripod.
OIS also has a substantial impact on video recording, where stabilization is crucial. Whether filming in bright light or striving for steady shots, OIS is an essential feature.
An almost mainstream feature. Despite being available for over a decade, OIS remains largely unstandardized. An increasing number of mid-range phones now include it, but manufacturers often cut back on OIS to save costs.
A quick look at the devices launched in 2025 reveals a clear trend. OIS is appearing more frequently in mid-range and upper mid-range phones. Meanwhile, more economical options, such as the recent CMF Phone 2 Pro, are left to rely on electronic stabilization.
Image | Xataka
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