Blackmagic Design has announced the release of Blackmagic Camera for iOS 3.3. This software update enhances the digital film camera application for iPhones by introducing new remote control capabilities and live production features.
Apple Watch Companion App
A primary addition in version 3.3 is the introduction of an Apple Watch companion app, which allows users to remotely control and monitor their iPhone camera. This functionality is intended for situations where the iPhone is mounted out of reach or where physical contact might cause camera shake.
Once installed via the Watch app on the user’s iPhone, the companion app enables the following functions from the wrist:
- Monitoring framing and audio levels.
- Starting and stopping recording.
- Adjusting key settings including exposure, focus, and LUTs.
- Changing lenses and controlling zoom.
ATEM Camera Control Integration
The update also expands the application’s utility in live production environments. When an iPhone is connected via the Blackmagic Camera ProDock to an ATEM Mini live production switcher, it can function as a studio camera.
Key features of this integration include:
- Single-Cable Setup: Video, tally, and camera control are transmitted over a single HDMI cable.
- Remote Adjustments: Users can adjust settings such as white balance, ISO, and shutter speed, as well as trigger recordings, directly from ATEM Software Control.
- Built-in Color Correction: A DaVinci primary color corrector is integrated into the software, allowing for precise camera matching and color grading during live broadcasts.
- Advanced Control: The system supports integration with a dedicated ATEM Micro Camera Control panel for advanced use cases.
Support for Focus and Zoom Demands
Blackmagic Camera for iOS 3.3 adds support for Blackmagic Focus and Zoom Demands, which provide broadcast-style lens control.
These optional hardware demands feature USB-C connections and can be daisy-chained via their dual USB-C ports before connecting to the Blackmagic Camera ProDock. This setup allows camera operators to frame and adjust the lens directly from the tripod handles.
The buttons on the demands are customizable, permitting users to assign specific camera functions to them according to their workflow. Mounting hardware for tripod handles is included with the demands.
Additional Features and Improvements
Beyond remote control and live production capabilities, the iOS 3.3 update includes several other features and technical improvements:
- Support for full-screen portrait mode HDMI output.
- Front camera support for portrait and landscape without rotation for the iPhone 17.
- Support for ProRes RAW stabilization in iOS 26.1 and above.
- General performance and stability improvements.
Availability
Blackmagic Camera for iOS 3.3, which builds upon the application’s existing digital film camera controls and Blackmagic Cloud collaboration features, is available as a free download on the Apple App Store.
The features will be demonstrated at the Blackmagic Design NAB 2026 booth (#N2502).