Apple is prioritizing content creators with two significant updates: a redesigned Camera app in iOS 26 and new studio-quality recording features for AirPods. These changes aim to simplify professional content production while reducing the need for external equipment.

The Camera app overhaul adopts Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” approach, reducing on-screen elements to minimize distractions during shooting. The interface now positions the shutter button closer to magnification options while moving camera function selections below the shutter. Photo and Video modes appear by default, with additional options accessible through a swipe gesture.

For video creators, the updated app displays frame rate, resolution, and format information in the top left corner. Users can tap these indicators to quickly switch between options, including ProRES under HDR or LOG, 4K resolution, and frame rates from 24 to 60 frames per second. This addresses previous frustrations where users had to cycle through settings or navigate to the Settings app for adjustments.

Studio-Quality Audio Recording

Complementing the camera improvements, Apple announced a significant audio upgrade coming to AirPods. The update will enable “studio-quality audio” recording directly through AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and AirPods Pro 2, eliminating the need for external microphones in many situations.

The enhanced recording capability leverages the H2 chip, beamforming microphones, and Apple’s audio processing technology. Voice Isolation helps isolate speech even in noisy environments, making it useful for creators filming in public spaces.

The feature will work with iPhone’s Camera app, Voice Memos, video call services, and third-party camera applications. Users can control recording by pressing and holding the stem of their AirPods.

This ecosystem approach aligns with industry trends toward simplified content creation tools. Canon has recently launched Live Switcher Mobile, enabling iOS users to connect multiple devices for multi-angle livestreams without requiring additional hardware.