The standard iPhone 16 and Pro get a new button on the side, called “Camera Control.” As the name suggests, this button is directly linked to your iPhone’s “Camera” app, allowing you to instantly open the camera and offering you some interesting interactions.
With the arrival of the iPhone 16, Apple introduced a very cool new feature for photography enthusiasts and content creators: the Camera Control button. Placed on the right side, just below the power button, this button allows you to interact with the camera in a smooth and intuitive way. Here’s a look at what this button brings to the user experience.
The Camera Control button is carefully designed, reflecting Apple’s quality standards. It is covered with sapphire crystal for a smooth and scratch-resistant texture and is surrounded by stainless steel, which reinforces its durability. To avoid accidental triggering, Apple has integrated a force sensor as well as haptic feedback, the user will have to apply a certain pressure on the button to trigger it and will have feedback by a small vibration.
A range of interactions for all your needs
The Camera Control button is not limited to simply opening the camera. Thanks to several levels of interaction, it allows you to control all stages of image and video capture. Here are the different possible commands:
- Single tap: Opens the default Camera app, or a third-party app if you’ve changed your settings.
- Single tap with camera open: Takes a photo immediately.
- Press and hold: Launches the Camera app and starts video recording directly.
- Light press: Triggers advanced controls such as zoom, focus and exposure lock.
- Double-tap lightly: Opens a preview menu to control settings like exposure or depth of field.
- Swipe left to right or right to left: Adjust settings such as zoom, exposure, or depth of field (in real time).
This multitude of options ensures customization of each photo taken, while adapting to the user’s preferences.
Compatibility with third-party applications
Apple hasn’t forgotten about content creators who use external apps for their photos and videos. The Camera button is fully compatible with popular apps like Snapchat or Instagram. Developers who are interested in leveraging this new button will still have to support it in a future update to their app that they will have to distribute on the App Store. The good news is that there are no restrictions, it’s an open bar for developers!
A dose of artificial intelligence
In an upcoming iOS 18 update, Apple plans to add an even more impressive feature to this Camera Control button: the integration of an AI that allows you to point the camera at an object or animal and instantly obtain information. This could include bird or dog recognition, details about a historical monument, reviews and opening hours of a restaurant… all with online searches via Google or ChatGPT for additional information.