iPhone 16 Camera Control button sparks user reactions: The good, the bad, and the confused

Apple has once again shaken up the smartphone world with the iPhone 16, but this time, it’s not the processor or the design hogging the spotlight — it’s a button. Yes, you heard that right. The Camera Control button, nestled just under the power button on all iPhone 16 models, has quickly become the talk of the tech town, especially on platforms like X and Reddit.

So what’s the deal with this button? Essentially, the Camera Control feature lets you do things that are typically only possible on dedicated cameras. With a tap or a swipe, you can toggle between camera functions, including zoom, exposure, depth of field, and even some fancy AI-driven image analysis features coming later. Users can point their camera at objects for instant details — restaurants, plants, or even a concert flyer can now reveal a wealth of information without needing a separate app. Ever heard of Google Lens? Yep.

But like anything new in tech, not everyone is thrilled, and here’s how some users reacted.

The lovers: It’s about time

A large section of the tech community has welcomed the Camera Control button with open arms — finally, a physical (well, almost) control that makes mobile photography feel pro-level. Long-time users of devices like Sony Xperia and older Windows-powered Nokia phones are practically giddy with nostalgia. Some of them had been clamoring for the return of a physical camera button on smartphones, and for them, the iPhone 16 has delivered.

Tech reviewers are divided. Some hail the button as a long-overdue addition, reminiscent of the beloved physical buttons on older phones and certain Android models. “Coolest new feature?” gushed Apple reviewer iJustine, echoing the sentiment of many who miss the satisfying click of a dedicated shutter button.

The tactile click, reminiscent of a DSLR, has been described as a satisfying return to form for mobile cameras. The ability to half-press to focus and fully press to capture feels natural for these users who had been frustrated with touchscreen-only controls. And while Apple took its sweet time bringing this feature to iPhones, some are already calling it one of the neatest upgrades yet. Perhaps this explains the rush Nubia and Oppo are in to add a version of the Camera Control button to their upcoming phones, and I’m willing to bet they won’t be the only Android phones to ship with this function.

The skeptics: Why reinvent the wheel?

Not everyone is on board, though. Some are asking, “Was this even necessary?” With touchscreen controls working perfectly fine, the new button feels like a solution in search of a problem for these users. The touch controls are already intuitive and more familiar, they argue — adding an extra button might just complicate things. Some even compared it to the forgettable “action button” on the iPhone 15 Pro, raising concerns about Apple’s track record of utilizing features effectively.

The debate extends beyond functionality. Aesthetics and practicality are also on the table, where the issue becomes even more pronounced when considering phone cases. While Sony phone users accustomed to dedicated camera buttons have expressed excitement, others are worried about accidental button presses due to its placement. A growing number of people are also concerned about how this Camera Control button will work with iPhone 16 protective cases, which might interfere with its functionality. Some are already bracing for an influx of camera button “fails,” or worse, the dreaded “camera button-gate.”

The confused: Wait… how does this work?

Another slice of the user pie seems to be slightly overwhelmed by the button’s complexity. For them, the finicky nature of sliding between settings like zoom and exposure may lead to some unintentional (and unflattering) shots. Some have compared the button’s learning curve to the ill-fated touch wheel on the Rabbit AI device. In short: cool idea, but it takes a lot of practice to master.

These users aren’t ruling the button out just yet, though. With some patience, they hope to grow into the feature. Besides, Apple’s upcoming Visual Intelligence functionality could win over even the most skeptical users once it rolls out.

The innovators want more

For some tech enthusiasts, the iPhone 16 Camera Control button is a start, but not the finish line. Suggestions have already started flooding in for future upgrades: how about a fingerprint sensor embedded into the button? This could improve security and speed by replacing or supplementing Face ID. Other users want the button to be customizable like the Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro.

In fact, there’s a growing call for Apple to combine both buttons, merging camera control with other functions like launching shortcuts or setting custom actions.

As with any bold new feature, the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 is dividing opinions. While some users are rejoicing at the return of physical controls, others aren’t convinced it’s worth the added complexity. And then there’s the middle ground—those who are eager to see how future updates and third-party apps might make this feature even more indispensable.

What’s certain is that Apple’s latest move has captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts everywhere. Whether you’re all in on the button or keeping your fingers crossed for software tweaks, it’s clear that the iPhone 16 will redefine how we interact with our cameras — again.

Will it become a popular feature, or will it fade into obscurity like the Touch ID or headphone jack? Only time — and user reviews — will tell.

NOTE: The article has been updated with details of Android brands working on their version of Camera Control button.