Utilizing the Camera Adjustment Button on Your Freshly Acquired iPhone 16
The iPhone 16/16 Pro's new Camera Control button, much like political opinions, is profoundly divisive. Some individuals consider it a boon; they contend it simplifies on-the-spot photography, eliminating the need to unlock the device using Face ID and subsequently launching the camera app. Furthermore, it offers swift access to Visual Intelligence in the most recent iOS 18 update and acts as an aid for individuals with mobility issues.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are individuals who loathe the Camera Control button to such an extent that they deem it the most regrettable feature Apple has ever incorporated into the iPhone. Quite dramatic, but you'll comprehend the sentiment once you start utilizing the button yourself. The button is situated toward the lower half of the iPhone, so you'll need to handle the device meticulously with your index finger and thumb to avoid inducing shake when pressing. Unpracticed users may find the mechanism exacerbates the shakiness, which is contrarian to the intended stability when capturing photographs. Apple's algorithms help mitigate some shake, but the sensation of instability remains.
If you're accustomed to the iPhone 16/16 Pro, you're probably pondering the utility of a button that seemingly came out of nowhere. My responsibility is to guide you on the usage of this hitherto deserted function. Despite the absence of demand, the Camera Control button can significantly expedite photo-taking. However, if you prefer the traditional method of iPhone photography, the button can still be advantageous.
Press and snap
© Florence Ion / Gizmodo
The Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro is a tangible entity reminiscent of a MacBook trackpad. Press it firmly, akin to the power or volume buttons, or press lightly for a gentle press. The button responds to tactile input, enabling you to manipulate the interface by gliding your finger across it.
Double-click the Camera Control button to summon the iPhone viewfinder. Press once more to snap a picture, or long-press to initiate video recording. Opt for a gentle press, and you can navigate between camera lenses, including the 5x telephoto lens on both iPhone 16 Pro models. A double-tap will cycle through other settings, such as exposure, depth, and the iPhone 16's new Photographic styles.
The soft-press-and-slide mechanism took some getting used to. I required time to comprehend the nuances of a soft press with the Camera Control button and appreciate iOS's interface animations when triggered. Stabilization helps me navigate the phone's slider mechanism more efficiently.
If you've upgraded to iOS 18.2, Apple provides the option to control exposure and focus lock by modifying the Camera Control slider. Configuration in the Settings app is relatively straightforward though requires completion prior to photographing.
© Florence Ion / Gizmodo
Customize Camera Control button
As an Android user, I appreciate the convenience of double-pressing the power button to access the camera app. I thus didn't object to the Camera Control button's double-press prerequisite for activation. However, I opted for the swifter shortcut to launch the camera with a single click. Apple offers this customization from Settings. Navigate to Camera Control, and choose between a single or double click to activate the camera.
The Camera Control button can also be tailored or utilized as an accessibility aid for individuals with diverse needs. Under Settings > Accessibility > Camera Control, adjust the firmness of the button's soft and hard presses and select the required force for each press.
You're not obligated to utilize it
While you're not forced to utilize the Camera Control button to access the iPhone's camera app, you can assign alternative functions to it if necessary. Returning to the iOS settings panel, under Camera Control settings, you can program it to execute other tasks, albeit with limited options. Choose between the integrated QR code scanner, the magnifier for enhancing real-life text, or third-party apps that support the new hardware. You can even deactivate the Camera Control button altogether if it impedes your iPhone experience.
© Florence Ion / Gizmodo
In the future, Apple might consider expanding the functionality of the Camera Control button to include additional shortcuts in the iOS operating system. This could potentially transform the button into a versatile tool, appealing to a wider range of users.
With the latest updates in tech and technology, future iPhones might incorporate advanced haptic feedback for the Camera Control button, enhancing the user experience and improving the overall stability during photo or video capturing.
