iPhone 16 Camera Control Button: A Mixed Experience for Users

The iPhone 16’s Camera Control button, initially anticipated with high expectations, has received mixed feedback from users. While the feature successfully provides faster access to the camera app, some users, especially those who hold their phones in their left hand, report issues with accessibility and practicality. The button’s placement and the added bulk from protective cases can make it difficult for some users to reach comfortably, potentially diminishing its utility.

In response to user feedback, Apple has introduced a new setting, “Require Screen On,” available in iOS 18.2 beta 3, aiming to enhance the Camera Control button’s functionality. By navigating to the iPhone 16’s Settings app and tapping Display & Brightness, users can find this new toggle. Enabled by default, the “Require Screen On” setting matches the current behavior—activating the camera button first turns on the screen, a second press opens the camera app, and a third press captures a photo. Disabling this option allows users to open the camera directly without needing the screen to be on, which may appeal to content creators seeking immediate access to photo and video capabilities. However, this change could lead to accidental camera activations, especially for those not using a phone case.

For users who prefer to keep “Require Screen On” enabled, Apple’s “Raise to Wake” feature serves as an alternative for quick camera access. By raising the iPhone to activate the screen, a single press of the Camera Control button brings up the camera app, putting the user one tap away from capturing their next shot. Additionally, the new toggle supports faster access to Apple’s Visual Intelligence, a feature similar to Google Lens, allowing users to receive contextual information about their surroundings with increased ease.

This update is currently available only to iPhone 16 and 16 Plus users on iOS 18.2 beta. Users of previous iPhone models compatible with iOS 18.2 will not see this setting, as they lack the dedicated camera button introduced in the latest iPhone model. Apple’s approach signals its commitment to improving the Camera Control experience, even if significant design changes remain unlikely in the immediate future.