Minor A7Cii Bug?

[rmcohen]

Wrap up:

I was within the return period on the camera so I sent it back this afternoon as defective and ordered a new one.

its not defective you just dont know how to set up the camera.

You're absolutely right, it's not a defect -- IT'S A FEATURE!!!

And, it's documented: https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/articles/00252065

Here's a copy of the article:

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The display doesn't turn on when I look through the viewfinder | Sony USA

Article ID : 00253665 / Last Modified : 09/04/2023

The display doesn't turn on when I look through the viewfinder

IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.

The Select Finder/Monitor feature of the camera allows you to set the method for switching the display between the viewfinder and the monitor. When set to Auto, the eye sensor will react and switch on the viewfinder automatically. For details on the feature, check your product manual. Manuals are posted on your model support page.

Even if the feature is set to Auto, the eye sensor will become disabled and will not switch to the viewfinder if the monitor is in any of the following positions:

• Selfie shot
  
  
• Low-angle shot
  
  
• High-angle shot
  
  

To activate the eye sensor and use the viewfinder, change the monitor position.

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And here's a list of cameras this applies to:

Applicable Products

• Cameras & Camcorders
  • Digital Cameras
    • Interchangeable-lens Cameras
      • E-Mount Body
        • ILCE-6000 Series
          • ILCE-6700
          • ILCE-6700L
          • ILCE-6700M
        • ILCE-7 Series
          • ILCE-7C
          • ILCE-7CL
          • ILCE-7CM2
          • ILCE-7CM2L
          • ILCE-7CR
          • ILCE-7M4
          • ILCE-7M4K
          • ILCE-7RM5
          • ILCE-7SM3

And, in fact, it operates as described on my A7C, I guess it just never registered on me before.

One thing that confuses me, however, is that there are several suggestions in this thread about various settings to 'cure' this issue. Are there people here for whom this guidance doesn't apply???