Electronic image stabilisation (EIS): how a phone steadies video in software

Electronic image stabilisation (EIS) is stabilisation done in software: the camera records a slightly wider frame, and the system shifts and crops it to compensate for the phone's movement.

EIS holds the image in a frame by cropping the edges

In plain words

Imagine looking out of a bumpy bus window while holding a frame in front of your eyes and moving it so the same house stays inside. The house in the frame "stands still", and you simply do not see the edges of the window. EIS does the same with video: it crops the edges and "holds" the picture in place.

How it works

The camera records video with a small margin around the edges.
The gyroscope and frame analysis show how the phone moved.
The system shifts each frame against the movement.
Edges that "stick out" are cropped, so the field of view narrows slightly.
The strongest modes ("action", "super steady") crop more and so are steadier.

Electronic stabilisation shifts and crops the frame

Where you'll see it

EIS is in almost every smartphone for video, in action cameras (GoPro, DJI Osmo Action) and drones. In camera settings it appears as "stabilisation", "action mode" or "Super Steady". The best results come from combining OIS and EIS.

Does it matter when buying

For video on the move, yes. But know the quirks: strong modes narrow the field of view, and in the dark you may see "jelly-like" distortion. EIS barely helps with photos - OIS matters more there.

Myths

Myth: EIS completely replaces optical stabilisation. Reality: For photos and night video, OIS is irreplaceable; together is best.
Myth: EIS does not affect quality. Reality: It crops the frame and in the dark can add artefacts.

FAQ

Why is the frame narrower in video than in photos?

Because the edges are cropped for electronic stabilisation.

What is "action mode"?

A strong EIS mode for running, cycling and bumpy rides, with a noticeable crop.

Can I stabilise video after shooting?

Yes, some editors and apps do this, but they also crop the edges.