A recent image posted on Reddit showcased an unusual sight: an iPhone without a camera. This sparked curiosity and led to a deeper exploration of the reasons behind such modifications. The photo, originally shared on the “Mildly Interesting” subreddit, depicted an older iPhone model with a missing camera. The post’s author revealed that the phone belonged to a friend who worked at a nuclear power plant, where cameras are strictly prohibited.
Further investigation on the r/iPhone subreddit uncovered that these camera-less iPhones are not produced by Apple but are modified by third-party companies for various sectors demanding heightened security. This practice is particularly prevalent in industries like the military, where sensitive information necessitates camera-free devices. Several users shared anecdotes of encountering similar camera-less iPhone models, including one found in a Dubai store selling pre-owned smartphones.
Interestingly, some responses suggested that Apple once sold modified versions of the iPhone without cameras to specific government agencies. This practice seems to have ceased, but the demand for camera-less devices remains in certain industries.
Delving deeper into the world of camera-less iPhones led to the discovery of companies like NonCam and Mister Mobile, specializing in camera removal services. NonCam’s website offers conversion kits for various iPhone models, allowing users to remove the camera for a price of $250. They also offer pre-modified iPhones for over $1,000. Their clientele includes military personnel, oil and gas industry workers, and even educational institutions.
Mister Mobile, based in Singapore, provides a similar service, particularly for individuals entering military service, where phones with cameras are banned. Their modification is reversible, allowing users to restore their phone to its original state after completing their service. This option is considerably more affordable than NonCam, costing the local equivalent of $28. Mister Mobile also extends their camera removal services to other major smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung, Sony, Google, and OnePlus.
The next time you encounter an iPhone lacking its iconic camera, remember that it likely originated from a specialized service cater to industries where security demands override the need for a camera. The modification process involves the complete removal of the camera system, both hardware and software, ensuring that no one can add a camera back. So, if you see an iPhone without a camera, you know that it’s been carefully designed to meet the specific needs of its user and the environment they operate in.
