Apple plans a major redesign of the iPhone Camera app in iOS 27

Apple is reportedly preparing a major update to the iPhone’s Camera app as part of iOS 27, with changes aimed at giving users more control over photography and video settings. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the redesign will focus on customisation, improved usability and deeper integration of artificial intelligence features ahead of the company’s Worldwide Developers Conference on 8 June.

The reported update forms part of a broader software push expected to be unveiled at WWDC 2026. Apple is also said to be focusing on performance improvements and new AI-powered tools across its ecosystem. While AI remains a key priority for the company, the Camera app redesign could become one of the more noticeable changes for everyday iPhone users.

The current Camera app has largely kept the same structure for several years, with only gradual updates to controls and shooting modes. The reported overhaul suggests Apple is now looking to offer more flexibility for both casual users and photography enthusiasts without completely abandoning the familiar interface.

Camera app to offer greater customisation

The biggest reported change involves the ability to customise the Camera app interface. Bloomberg claims users will no longer be restricted to Apple’s default layout and will instead be able to adjust controls to suit their preferences better.

The default design is expected to remain familiar, but users can swap camera controls via a new “Add Widgets” tray. Options such as flash settings, image resolution and Live Photos could reportedly be rearranged or replaced with other controls. Apple is also believed to be adding more advanced settings, including controls for exposure, depth of field, and Photo Styles.

The update appears aimed at making manual adjustments faster and easier directly from the touchscreen. Apple previously introduced the Camera Control button to simplify access to settings, but the new interface could reduce the need to navigate multiple menus.

Additional usability changes are also expected. Bloomberg reports that Apple will introduce new grid and level tools to help users frame shots more accurately while taking photos or recording video. The toggle that reveals additional camera controls is reportedly moving from the top-right corner of the app to a position beside the shutter button, potentially improving one-handed operation.

The reported redesign reflects growing competition in smartphone photography, where companies increasingly target users seeking greater creative control. Rival manufacturers have already introduced more advanced manual settings and customisable camera layouts, particularly in premium flagship devices.

AI features expected to expand across iPhone software

Artificial intelligence is also expected to play a larger role in the updated Camera app. Apple is reportedly integrating Visual Intelligence directly into the camera interface rather than keeping it tied to the Camera Control button.

The company is said to be introducing a new Siri mode within the Camera app that would allow users to access AI-powered tools while using the camera. Features could include image-based web searches, text translation and other contextual tools that rely on visual input.

AI is also expected to support new photo-editing features, though specific details have not yet been revealed. Apple has been steadily increasing its focus on AI across its software products as competition intensifies in the wider technology industry.

Beyond the Camera app, Siri itself is reportedly receiving a major redesign. Bloomberg claims the assistant’s glowing animation will move from the edges of the display into the Dynamic Island, creating a more integrated visual experience on newer iPhone models.

Apple is also expected to replace Spotlight Search with a new “Search or Ask” interface. According to the report, the feature will return search results in card-style layouts and allow users to move directly into a conversational chat interface with Siri.

The redesigned system is said to support both voice input and web-based results. Previous conversations with Siri may also be accessible through a standalone Siri app, making it easier for users to access past interactions and requests.

Apple prepares wider software changes ahead of WWDC 2026

Alongside the reported Camera and Siri updates, Apple is believed to be preparing smaller changes across several built-in applications. Safari is expected to receive a redesigned start page, while the Weather app could display more detailed information.

The Image Playground app, which focuses on AI-generated visuals, is also reportedly being redesigned to simplify the user experience. Apple appears to be refining several parts of iOS to make AI features easier to access and more practical for everyday use.

Although many of the expected announcements involve artificial intelligence, the reported Camera app overhaul suggests Apple is also concentrating on core user experience improvements. Photography remains one of the most important features for smartphone buyers, and expanding manual controls could help Apple appeal to more advanced users without creating a separate professional app.

WWDC 2026 begins on 8 June, and further leaks are likely to emerge before the event. Apple has not officially confirmed any of the reported features, but the company is widely expected to place AI and software refinement at the centre of its upcoming announcements.