The Camera Control button is currently unique to the iPhone 16 lineup.
The Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 models can be set to perform various functions besides taking pictures. Here’s how you can change its functionality.
By default, pressing the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 models launches the Camera app. Pressing it again takes a picture, while a long press shoots a video. Users can also use a light press on the button to adjust settings like zoom level or exposure.
Some users may prefer using the on-screen menus of the Camera app rather than the button. You can reprogram the Camera Control button in System Settings to launch the Magnifier app or a hidden Code Scanner app instead.
Here’s how you can do it.
QR and other code scanning
You can reprogram the Camera Control button to launch a dedicated Code Scanner utility on your device for scanning QR codes. Simply go to Settings > Camera > Camera Control and select the Code Scanner option. Now, pressing the Camera Control button will open the code scanner app by default.
The Code Scanner app can quickly scan QR codes and display the information without needing to snap a picture. It can also be launched by typing “code” into the search field on your iPhone.
Accessing other functions for the Camera Control button can be found in System Settings.
Bring up the Magnifier app, or disable Camera Control entirely
You can set the Camera Control button to launch the Magnifier app for easier viewing in low light or for people with vision issues. The Magnifier app uses the camera to zoom in on objects.
To set the Camera Control button to launch Magnifier by default, go to Settings > Camera > Camera Control and select the Magnifier option. You can then use gestures on the screen to zoom in.
You also have the option to disable the Camera Control button on your iPhone 16 model. This may be useful for those who accidentally press the button or prefer using the volume buttons to take pictures.
To disable the Camera Control button, go to Settings > Accessibility > Physical and Motor > Camera Control and turn off the switch. You can always turn it back on later if needed.
This is also where you can adjust the button pressing firmness for using the Camera Control button for various functions.