The Camera Control feature introduced with the iPhone 16 received a variety of responses, including mine, which were somewhat mixed. However, the latest iOS 18.2 update significantly enhances the functionality, transforming it into the tool it was originally designed to be.
Visual Intelligence: A New Superpower for Your Camera
One of the most significant enhancements to Camera Control in iOS 18.2 is the introduction of visual intelligence.
Now you can long-press the Camera Control feature to activate your iPhone’s camera in a special mode that delivers crucial information about your surroundings, along with quick access to relevant actions.
With a simple click and hold on Camera Control, users can view restaurant hours or ratings as they pass by, add events from flyers directly to their calendar, accurately identify dog breeds, and much more. Additionally, Camera Control opens the door to third-party tools that offer specialized assistance, such as searching for items on Google or utilizing ChatGPT for problem-solving.
My colleague Fernando has put together a video showcasing ten unique applications of this visual intelligence feature. I highly suggest checking it out to discover what you can expect with iOS 18.2 on your iPhone 16.
Enhanced Camera Launcher Speed
Another notable improvement in iOS 18.2 is the ability to utilize Camera Control to access the camera application quicker than before.
To enable this, simply navigate to Settings ⇾ Display and Brightness, where you’ll find a new toggle labeled ‘Require Screen On’ under Camera Control.
Now, just pick up your iPhone, tap Camera Control, and your camera will be ready for action.
Additional Features and Settings
Additionally, iOS 18.2 introduces a two-stage shutter feature similar to what Apple showcased in September.
Within Settings ⇾ Camera ⇾ Camera Control, you’ll find a new toggle for AE/AF Lock.
Activating this feature enables a light press on Camera Control to lock both focus and exposure, allowing you to lock those elements first and then take a photo with a more solid press.
Moreover, there’s a new option in Settings ⇾ Accessibility ⇾ Camera Control that lets you adjust the speed of a double-click action, with three speed settings available: Default, Slow, and Slower.
On that note, it would be great if Apple could streamline all the Camera Control settings into one location for iOS 18.3. Currently, you have to navigate to various sections to manage these options.
Wrapping Up Camera Control in iOS 18.2
The improvements seen in Camera Control for iOS 18.2 genuinely reflect what Apple intended to launch with the iPhone 16. These updates significantly enhance the dedicated button’s utility, turning it into a standout feature it was always meant to be.
Have you started using Camera Control with iOS 18.2? What are your thoughts on the updates? Share your feedback in the comments section.
