iPhone 16's Camera Control button: Here's what it can do
Apple has unveiled its latest iPhone 16 series, introducing a new Camera Control button. This innovative feature is located on the right side of the device, a couple inches beneath the power button. Designed to enhance user experience while capturing images and videos, it operates in both landscape and portrait modes. The button itself is a capacitive, pressure-sensitive area rather than a traditional physical button. It is equipped with a force sensor and touch sensor to support various gestures.
Versatile functions of the camera control button
The Camera Control button is covered with a sapphire crystal and has a smooth texture, complemented by a stainless steel trim. A single click opens up the camera app or a third-party app, while another click with the camera open takes a photo. Users can start video recording by clicking and holding down this button. A light press brings up controls like zoom and will also lock focus and exposure for reframing shots without losing focus.
Advanced features and 3rd-party app integration
The Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 is set to receive an update later this year, introducing a two-state shutter that can lock focus and exposure on the subject. This feature can be activated by lightly pressing the camera button. Additionally, third-party developers will have access to this control for their apps, enabling users to adjust settings within social media platforms like Snapchat.
Camera Control button's visual intelligence feature
The Camera Control button will soon be integrated with a new visual intelligence feature. This will allow users to point their camera at an object and receive information about it using a click and hold gesture. For example, pointing at a restaurant could display its operating hours and ratings, while aiming at a plant could identify its species—much like Google Lens.
