**iPhone 18 Expected to Enhance Lackluster Camera Control Feature**
In light of a rumor suggesting that Apple intends to eliminate its Camera Control functionality in the forthcoming iPhone 18, Weibo insider Instant Digital has countered that belief. Rather than completely abolishing this feature, Apple aims to refine it for cost-saving purposes.
Instant Digital posted on Weibo, opposing insights from another Chinese source, OvO. They assert that Apple is currently undergoing its routine testing and validation phase for next year’s iPhone 18. To cut costs, the firm is reportedly contemplating the removal of the pressure sensing capacitor, opting to rely solely on the capacitive sensor.
At present, the Camera Control utilizes both capacitive and pressure sensors. The former identifies touch gestures, while the latter detects varying pressure levels. Apple appears inclined to eliminate the latter, following the trend set by brands like Oppo and Vivo in their newest smartphones.
The speculation indicates that the capacitive sensor might suffice for accurately recognizing gestures. Nonetheless, this could suggest that the Camera Control feature has fallen short of expectations over the past year.
**Absence of AI capabilities has hindered the justification for Camera Control**
Similar to other Apple offerings that have supposedly faced delays due to insufficient Apple Intelligence features, it appears that Camera Control may soon encounter challenges due to its high production expenses and lack of perceived value.
As per the leak, since Apple has struggled to swiftly integrate all intended Apple Intelligence features into Camera Control, consumers have found it challenging to utilize effectively. For instance, only a year post the iPhone 16 release, the company is introducing an enhanced Visual Intelligence search, akin to Google’s Circle to Search attribute.
Furthermore, the arrangement of buttons has drawn criticism from users and BGR as well. Utilizing the Camera Control tool can be perplexing, potentially taking longer than simply tapping the screen, and if users do not hold the iPhone correctly, the resulting photo or video may turn out shaky.
Although it seems that Apple will attempt to revitalize Camera Control next year, it may ultimately face discontinuation, similar to the fate of 3D Touch. Should that arise, we know the Visual Intelligence feature could transition to the Action Button, as already seen with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16e.
