Unlike the traditional buttons, the Camera Control is not a physical button but a touch-capacitive area with pressure-sensitive sensors. These sensors, combined with haptic feedback, imitate the feeling of pressing a real button. Covered with durable sapphire glass, this area is designed to withstand wear and tear, providing longevity for frequent users. The technology used is similar to that found in MacBook's Force Touch trackpads, ensuring a seamless and responsive experience.

With just a quick press, users can instantly launch the camera, capture a photo with a second press, or start recording a video with a long press. This intuitive functionality makes it easier than ever to capture moments without fumbling through menus. For more advanced users, swiping across the touch area allows adjustments such as zooming, exposure control, and managing the faux bokeh effect in Portrait mode. The flexibility of this button ensures that both casual and professional photographers can maximize their creativity.

The Camera Control button’s pressure sensitivity adds another layer of versatility. Depending on how hard you press, different actions can be triggered. A double press, for example, can switch between different camera modes, while a stronger press locks focus and exposure for more precise shots. This level of customization allows users to tailor the button's functionality to their specific needs, making it an essential tool for capturing perfect moments.

Apple has opened the door for third-party developers to integrate the Camera Control button into their apps. Popular apps like Snapchat are already planning to utilize this feature, giving users even more creative freedom when capturing content. This broad compatibility ensures that the Camera Control button will become an integral part of various apps, enhancing its overall utility beyond Apple's native camera app.

The Camera Control button also integrates seamlessly with Apple’s Visual Intelligence features, allowing users to quickly gather information about objects or scenes they capture. Whether pointing at a landmark, restaurant, or even a pet, the AI can instantly provide relevant details or add events to your calendar. Additionally, Apple has ensured that privacy remains a priority, as images processed through this feature are not stored on its servers. Although the full range of AI features won’t be available at launch, they are expected to roll out by the end of the year.