iOS 26 vs iOS 18: New Camera App Design and Features Compared

Camera Icon and Interface Evolution

• 📸 The iOS 26 camera app features a new lens icon, which is more minimalistic compared to the older camera icon on iOS 18.
• 💡 The interface on iOS 26 is described as more minimalistic, particularly on the right side, contrasting with the older interface of iOS 18.
• ⚙️ Accessing settings like Live Mode is streamlined in iOS 26, potentially removing redundant options found in iOS 18.

Video Settings and Resolution Differences

• 📊 In iOS 26, resolution and frame rate adjustments are made by clicking on the upper bar (e.g., 4K to HD, 30 FPS to 60 FPS).
• 📈 iOS 18 on iPhone 14 offers 30 and 60 FPS, while iOS 26 on iPhone 12 provides 24, 30, and 60 FPS options, which is noted as interesting.
• ⚠️ iPhone 14 with iOS 26 is expected to have an Action Mode toggle, a feature absent on the iPhone 12 with iOS 26 due to hardware limitations.

Navigation and Mode Switching

• 👆 iOS 26 offers a more handy interface for switching between camera modes, requiring fewer swipes compared to iOS 18.
• 🚀 Swiping once on iOS 26 can switch between Pano, Slow-mo, or Time-lapse modes, making it significantly more efficient.
• 🎨 Filters are available in both versions, but accidental activation of one-handed mode when trying to access filters on iOS 26 is highlighted as a potential issue.

Camera Settings Menu and Features

• 🔍 The camera settings menu in iOS 26 retains familiar options like scanning QR codes and using volume buttons for burst shots.
• 🔄 Settings like preserving settings, formats, and video recording options are available for modification in both iOS versions.
• ✨ Photographic Styles are mentioned as a feature in iOS 26, though it may not be available on older devices like the iPhone 12.