Realme C75 Camera Controversy Exposes Broader Trust Issues in Budget Smartphone Design

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The smartphone market, especially in the budget segment, thrives on innovation and marketing flair. But sometimes, that flair crosses into territory that sparks user outrage and accusations of deception. This is precisely the situation with Realme’s latest device — the Realme C75, a phone now embroiled in controversy over its rear camera design.

The Controversy: A Triple-Camera Illusion?

Multiple viral videos and user reports have brought into question the authenticity of Realme C75’s triple-camera setup. According to users who disassembled the device, what appears to be a triple-lens camera system on the back is in fact only a single functioning lens, while the other two elements serve non-imaging purposes.

These videos, which have amassed millions of views across social media platforms, claim that Realme has misled customers with an aesthetic that suggests enhanced imaging capabilities — a key selling point in today’s smartphone market.

Realme’s Official Response

Realme has addressed the issue in a detailed statement:

“Realme has never officially or unofficially claimed that the C75 smartphone features three rear cameras. In our press releases, video content, promotional materials, website, social media, and other platforms, we have consistently stated that the phone features one 50MP rear camera and one flicker lens. Among the three visible bumps on the rear panel, one is for the main camera lens, one for the flicker lens, and one is purely decorative to enhance the visual balance of the design.

These details have also been clearly communicated to customers through Realme sales points.

The flicker lens detects flicker frequency from surrounding light and helps reduce flicker during photography. It supports the main camera in optimizing image quality when capturing under light sources such as LED boxes or display screens.

The beautification bump is primarily used for QR code scanning via double touch and does not function as a camera.”

Analysis: Is It Deception or Design Philosophy?

While Realme’s statement is technically accurate, critics argue that the visual design itself misleads average consumers, many of whom may not read technical specifications or promotional fine print. The triple-bump design mimics phones with actual triple-camera systems, leading users to assume enhanced photo functionality.

Industry experts note that this is not the first time a budget phone has used cosmetic elements to suggest premium features. Similar complaints have been made in the past about other Chinese brands including Infinix, Tecno, and even early Xiaomi models.

A Pattern in Budget Smartphones?

The Realme C75 incident echoes a recurring pattern in the low-to-mid-range smartphone market where design-driven marketing overshadows functional transparency. Budget-conscious buyers often depend on appearance and brand promises, making them vulnerable to misleading aesthetic cues.

As smartphone penetration deepens in emerging markets, manufacturers are under pressure to deliver feature-rich designs at lower costs. However, this cannot come at the expense of consumer trust.

What Can Consumers Do?

Tech analysts recommend users:

• Watch reliable unboxing and teardown reviews on YouTube

• Check verified specifications on the manufacturer’s official website

• Avoid assuming functionality from design aesthetics

This incident serves as a reminder that in the age of viral marketing, informed buying is the best defense against product misrepresentation.

Realme may not have explicitly lied, but the design of the C75 has raised important questions about how budget phones are marketed. As the lines blur between real functionality and design mimicry, it’s clear the tech world must find a balance between innovation, affordability, and honesty.