The iPhone 16 introduces an innovative Camera Control feature that takes smartphone photography to new heights. At first glance, you might think of it as just another button—but it’s much more than that. This multi-functional control on the right side of the iPhone 16 series (just below the power button) combines both physical and on-screen gestures, making it a versatile tool for photographers of all skill levels.
Not Just a Button
Sure, you can call it a button, but this Camera Control is designed to go beyond simple taps. It recognizes full presses, light touches, and even gestures, transforming how users interact with their iPhone’s camera. When activated, a sleek, adaptable control window pops up on the Super Retina XDR display. This window dynamically adjusts its size based on your actions, providing easy access to the camera settings.
The feature lets you seamlessly toggle between different shooting modes, including exposure adjustments, depth zoom, styles, and more. This level of control brings a new sense of precision and functionality, especially when you hold the phone in a landscape position. The control window feels like a traditional camera shutter button, offering a familiar yet upgraded experience.
A Hidden Vertical Feature
Many users, myself included, often use their phones vertically, especially for quick snaps or social media uploads. At first, the Camera Control can feel slightly awkward in this orientation. However, there’s an overlooked trick: you can use the screen itself to manage controls. While the Camera Control button is still useful, the on-screen interactions simplify vertical one-handed photography.
How to Master On-Screen Controls
Accessing these hidden screen controls is surprisingly intuitive. After launching the Camera app with a press of the Camera Control button, a light tap activates your desired function. But instead of using the button for everything, simply swipe up and down on the display to switch between modes. This is especially handy when shooting with one hand—you can easily change modes or select lenses without needing to press any physical buttons.
In landscape mode, the Camera Control’s physical and screen gestures complement each other perfectly. Your index finger naturally moves between the button and the screen, allowing smooth transitions between settings like zoom and camera modes.
Best of Both Worlds: Physical and Touch Controls Combined
For users who might hesitate to use the Camera Control because they’re used to touch-screen photography, this feature offers the best of both worlds. You get the tactile feedback of a physical button combined with the flexibility of on-screen adjustments. Whether you prefer a traditional camera feel or a modern touch interface, the iPhone 16’s Camera Control adapts to your style.
