iOS 26: New Camera UI with hidden features
Apple’s iOS 26 brings a redesigned Camera app: a cleaner, more modern interface with rounded, floating controls and a two-tab layout focused on Photo and Video. Many additional functions are now accessible via gesture controls that aren’t immediately visible, which can make the UI feel simpler at first glance but hides advanced options behind swipes and taps.
Key changes
- Refreshed UI: Liquid-glass visual style, clearer layout.
- Gesture-based hidden functions: Swipe and long-press gestures reveal advanced settings and options.
- Double Capture: A new simultaneous photo capture mode — exclusive to iPhone 17 models, leveraging their updated multi-lens hardware and processing.
- Lens hygiene alerts: AI-powered warnings if the lens appears dirty.
Double Capture requires hardware available in iPhone 17 models, so users of older iPhones won’t see this option.
What this means for users
Casual users will appreciate the simplified look, but power users may need to learn the new gestures to access some features. Prospective iPhone 17 buyers get an additional camera capability with Double Capture.
Sources & further reading
Have you tried the new Camera in iOS 26 yet? Share which gestures or features surprised you.