In 2023, Apple introduced a customizable “Action” button on the iPhone 15, replacing the Ring/Silent switch. This year, this button is no longer exclusive to the Pro models and the brand is bringing another physical novelty. Called “Camera Control”, this new button equips the entire range of the new iPhone 16 (16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max). It is designed to make it easier to use the camera and access certain shooting features. Our test of an iPhone 16 reveals that the objective is partially achieved. Let’s explain.
Located on the lower part of the right side, it is one of the new features introduced on the iPhone 16, which evolves without revolution. The main one, namely the integration of Apple Intelligence, remained unresolved. Announced for this month in the United States, the deployment of Apple’s AI is promised in 2025 in Europe. But back to our buttons. One thing is certain, the new tool assigned to the camera checks the “speed” box for taking a photo or video. Simply press it to automatically launch the Camera app (and soon other apps, like Instagram and Snapchat). It therefore makes superfluous, on the lock screen, the traditional shortcut assigned to the camera which can be replaced by another, thanks to the iOS 18 system.
A first criticism concerns the position of the new button: it is slightly too far from the right edge. In landscape mode, this requires you to adopt a less natural posture with your right hand to reach it with your fingertip. Apple undoubtedly had to make a compromise so that the button retained acceptable ergonomics when used with the thumb in portrait mode. However, using it in landscape mode remains more practical.
The button requires some time to get used to to master all its functions. It reacts to several levels of pressure: a short press takes a photo, a long press starts video recording, which stops when released. Equipped with a tactile surface, it allows access to the zoom controls by lightly pressing. The zoom is adjusted by sliding your finger across the surface, without having to touch the screen directly. A light double click gives access to other functions (exposure, depth, cameras, styles and tone) which can be adjusted in the same way. We have found that it often takes several attempts to achieve the desired function and value, which complicates and lengthens the process. Direct adjustment of parameters via the iPhone screen remains, however, an alternative.
In conclusion, the addition of a trigger to advanced functions on the iPhone is appreciated for quick shots. However, it does not necessarily ensure immediate time savings. This new tool, not the most intuitive, requires time to become familiar with the new commands.
For the rest, the iPhone 16, sold from 849 francs, has never been so close to the Pro model. Benefiting from a still premium finish, it has the same buttons and as much RAM (8 GB). Equipped with the high-performance A18 chip and good battery life, this device integrates a 48 Mpx photo module, whose rear design is reminiscent of that of the iPhone 12 with its two sensors again aligned vertically. It only lacks the telephoto lens and the 5x optical zoom (compared to 2x on the iPhone 16) present on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max. It also offers a macro mode, as well as a deeper level of customization to adjust the style of photos.
The refresh rate of the very bright 6.1-inch screen, however, remains stuck at 60 Hz, compared to 120 Hz, for more fluidity of images, on the Pro models. There remains the bitter taste of not yet being able to test Apple Intelligence, which remains in the starting blocks for an as yet unknown period.
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