Apple redesigned the Camera app in iOS 26 to be cleaner, easier to use, and smarter. The new look, called Liquid Glass, puts your photo or video front and center, reduces clutter, and groups controls so you can focus on taking better pictures. Below I walk through the changes, show how to enable useful new features, and share tips to get the best results.
Overview: What Changed and Why It Matters
The first thing you will notice is the visual redesign. Buttons are softer and more visible, and the interface feels less crowded so the picture you are taking becomes the main focus.
“The picture you’re taking is the star of the show.”
Photo and Video modes are now front and center. Other modes like Portrait and Panorama are still available, but they are tucked into a swipe area so they do not overwhelm the screen if you mostly take standard photos.
Cleaner Controls: Where Everything Lives Now
Instead of tiny icons scattered around, related controls are grouped together. Tap the settings button (the three dots) to find flash, timer, and photo format all in one place. Zoom options are visible above the shutter button for quick access.
Lens Cleaning Hints: Fix Blurry Photos Quickly
If your photos look soft or blurry, the cause is often a smudged lens. iOS 26 can detect when the lens is dirty and gently remind you to clean it. This feature requires iPhone 15 Pro or newer.
How to enable Lens Cleaning Hints
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Camera.
- Scroll toward the bottom and toggle on Lens Cleaning Hints.
Use a soft cloth or the edge of your shirt to wipe the lens. You will often notice instantly sharper photos. It is a small but helpful feature, especially for users who want straightforward, reliable results.
Portrait Mode Gets a 3D Spatial Upgrade
Portrait mode now supports 3D spatial photos. When you tilt your phone, the subject and background shift slightly, giving the image a sense of depth. This makes grandkids, pets, and other subjects look more lively.
How to view and adjust the 3D effect
- Open the portrait photo in the Photos app and tap the hexagon icon to view the 3D spatial effect.
- Tap the edit icon (three lines) to adjust the strength of the effect.
- Drag the depth slider to increase or decrease background blur and depth.
Tip: After you adjust, rotate or tilt your iPhone to better see the 3D effect in action.
Use Your AirPods as a Remote Shutter
If you have AirPods, you can use them to snap a photo or start recording video. This is great for group shots, tripod selfies, or recording yourself without stretching your arm.
How to set up AirPod camera control
- Put at least one AirPod in your ear so it connects to your iPhone.
- Open Settings and tap your AirPods in the device list.
- Scroll to Camera Control and choose Off, Press Once, or Press and Hold.
With Camera Control enabled, pressing the AirPod stem can trigger a quick burst of photos. The Camera app takes a burst (for example, a burst of 10), and you can pick the best one afterward.
Use this for group shots when your phone is on a stand or to avoid awkwardly reaching the shutter while recording yourself.
Improved Panorama Mode
Panorama stitching is smoother and more accurate, making wide landscapes, beaches, and large group shots look better. The simplified interface also makes it easy to adjust zoom, brightness, and focus while composing your shot.
How to take a panorama
- Swipe along the bottom to select the Panorama option.
- Tap the shutter key and slowly move the phone along the guidance line on-screen.
Quick Tips and Final Thoughts
- Explore the new Liquid Glass look and give yourself time to get used to the layout.
- Enable Lens Cleaning Hints if you have an iPhone 15 Pro or newer to avoid smudged-lens blur.
- Try the 3D spatial view on portrait shots and adjust depth in the Photos app for more lifelike images.
- Set up AirPods Camera Control for hands-free shooting and quick bursts.
- Use the improved panorama mode for wide scenes and move the phone steadily along the on-screen guide.
The Camera app in iOS 26 might feel different at first, but it is designed to make things simpler and clearer. Try these features and adjustments, and you should be taking sharper, more engaging photos and videos in no time. Let me know how it works for you.
Like Video instead? Head to my YouTube channel for more great tips.
