The Origins of the iPhone's Iconic Camera Shutter Sound

Whenever you take a photo with an iPhone, you’re greeted with a familiar shutter-release sound. This iconic auditory cue is more than just a functional signal—it carries a fascinating history tied to a vintage camera from the 1970s.

The sound originates from the Canon AE-1, a groundbreaking single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced in 1976. As the first mass-produced consumer camera to feature microprocessor-controlled auto exposure, the Canon AE-1 revolutionized photography and sold an impressive 5.7 million units before production ended in 1984. While the physical AE-1 cameras are no longer produced, their legacy lives on in every iPhone.

This connection was established during the early development of Apple’s Mac computers. Jim Reekes, a sound designer for Apple, crafted many of the operating system’s most recognizable audio effects, including the startup chime and the distinctive “quack” error sound. When tasked with creating a camera-like sound for screenshots (activated by Cmd-Shift-3), Reekes turned to his own Canon AE-1. He recorded the actual shutter click of the camera, ensuring authenticity in the experience.

Years later, when Apple introduced the first iPhone, the same shutter sound was repurposed for its camera function. The decision imbued the device with a touch of nostalgia and technological homage, blending the old with the new. This iconic sound has accompanied every iPhone model, from the original to the latest iPhone 16.

The continued use of the Canon AE-1’s shutter sound showcases Apple’s commitment to maintaining a connection with the tactile and sensory elements of analog photography, even in an age dominated by digital technology.