The Camera app has undergone significant design updates in iOS 26, aimed at enhancing user experience. Apple has simplified the interface, making it more intuitive and accessible. While most changes focus on visual design, there are also some notable functionality enhancements. One of the key design elements introduced is the Liquid Glass aesthetic.
The Camera app features rounded buttons that appear to float over the background, contributing to a modern look. The area behind the camera shutter and control buttons has been made more transparent, allowing users to see the surroundings more clearly. Additionally, the toggles for changing focal lengths have been redesigned, making the overall interface feel cleaner. iOS 26 also introduces a two-tab layout in the navigation bar, which now prominently displays just two options: Photo and Video.
Though users can still swipe to access other modes—such as Portrait, Panorama, Slo-Mo, and Cinematic—this simplified design helps users focus on the primary functions. The shutter button’s appearance has been revamped, featuring a more subtle Liquid Glass ring instead of the previous bright white outline. Another useful feature is the pop-out menus. Specific controls, previously located at the top of the app, are now integrated into these menus, making it easy to access options like Flash, Live Photo, Timer, and Exposure.
This design change keeps the interface streamlined while still providing quick access to essential features. For those using AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods 4, iOS 26 allows the use of these devices as a remote shutter, facilitating photo-taking through a simple press on the stem. This feature enhances convenience for users who prefer hands-free operation. Moreover, the app now includes a lens cleaning notification system, alerting users when their camera lens needs cleaning.
Developers also gain access to new APIs for Cinematic mode, enabling third-party apps to offer similar video capabilities as the native Camera app. Lastly, the integration with macOS 26 allows users to utilize their iPhone’s camera as a magnifying glass, significantly aiding those with vision issues.
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