New camera system and a dedicated button for them on the iPhone 16: this is what the rumors tell us

The new iPhone 16, still wrapped in mystery and rumors, promise to bring a series of improvements focused on photography. Among the most notable innovations are a new camera system with vertically aligned lenses and a dedicated button exclusively for the camera, which suggests an even greater focus on mobile photography.

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A camera system for the Vision Pro and a button for the Pro models

According to the latest leaks, shared by Majin Bu on X, the entry-level iPhone 16 could feature a change in the design of its camera module. Unlike previous models, where the lenses were arranged diagonally, the iPhone 16 schematics show a vertical alignment of the lenses. This change is not merely aesthetic, but responds to a very specific functionality: recording spatial videos for Apple Vision Pro.

Recording space videos allows you to create content that, although they may seem like normal videos on the iPhone, can be viewed in 3D through Vision Pro, offering a very immersive and truly interesting experience. The new vertical design in the cameras of the entry-level iPhone 16 suggests that Apple is seeking to further enhance this functionality, allowing for simpler access to the creation of three-dimensional content.

But the improvements in photography go beyond that. Speaking of the iPhone 16 with the Pro surname, rumors have already told us about a new capture button. One intended for the iPhone camera and that, as we now know, would allow us to quickly open the camera, adjust the focus, and zoom by sliding the finger left or right on the button. A triple utility —if we can’t customize even more options— that comes close to what physical buttons found on DSLR cameras offer.

At this point, the possibility of detecting different levels of pressure would also emulate the two-stage shutter button of conventional cameras, allowing to focus with a slight pressure and capture the image when fully pressed. Overall, the iPhone 16 Pro will offer us a more tactile and precise experience in capturing images, bringing the ease of use of smartphones closer to the ergonomics and functionality of professional cameras.

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Although it is still early to confirm all these features with certainty, rumors point to a significant evolution in the design and capabilities of the iPhone 16, especially in terms of photography and videography. As usual, we expect the new models in September, when all the details will be revealed, but in the meantime, the rumors paint a quite interesting scenario.