Before NAB 2026, Blackmagic Design announced the latest update for the Blackmagic Camera app. This video-focused mobile application provides much more control over the iPhone's cameras compared to the standard iOS Camera app, and the new version 3.3 continues to enhance that control.

A new companion app for Apple Watch leads the changes and serves as a control element on the wrist. It also supports full-screen portrait mode for vertical video creation via HDMI output and provides ATEM camera control with the Blackmagic Camera ProDock.

The new Apple Watch companion app is the biggest feature in version 3.3 and does not disappoint in its first presentation. By using your Apple Watch, you can see a full viewfinder image on your wrist; this is a perfect solution when recording selfie videos with the higher-quality main camera on the back of the iPhone. While it doesn't eliminate the need for an independent monitor, it helps support an external display and can be useful in emergencies.

Above the viewfinder, the watch companion app displays timecode, focus settings, resolution, and remaining battery life. Below the viewfinder, you will see audio input levels, a record start/stop switch, and a settings button.

By swiping up or down in the app, users can hide or show information around the viewfinder, allowing them to focus entirely on the shooting frame. And when you want to switch between the iPhone's lenses? Just turn the Digital Crown on your Apple Watch.

If that's not enough, there are switches in the settings to adjust the following features:

Camera

  • Auto Focus
  • Auto Exposure
  • Auto WB
  • Lock All
  • Stabilization
  • Flash Light

Recording

  • Timelapse
  • Off / Speed

LUT

  • No LUT
  • Preview Only
  • Save to File

Live Streaming

  • Start Streaming

Related Video: Blackmagic Camera ProDock Review

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While the companion Apple Watch app is the main feature in the 3.3 update, there are many additional innovations and bug fixes that Blackmagic Camera app users will appreciate. Here’s everything that’s new:

What’s New in Blackmagic Camera 3.3?

  • Camera control with a companion app for Apple Watch.
  • Support for HDMI output in full-screen portrait mode.
  • ProRes RAW stabilization support for iOS 26.1 and above.
  • ATEM camera control support with Blackmagic Camera ProDock.
  • Support for Blackmagic Focus and Zoom requests.
  • Front camera supports portrait and landscape modes without rotation for iPhone 17.
  • Fixed potential issues when recording ProRes RAW from the front camera.
  • Preview latency issues resolved with Blackmagic Camera ProDock as the audio source.
  • Fixed open door H.264 and H.265 issues using incorrect bit rates.

The Blackmagic Camera app 3.3, along with the companion Apple Watch app, is now available for free download from the App Store for new and existing users.

As a user of the Blackmagic Camera app, this update fulfills a major wish on my wishlist with Apple Watch control. Previously, you could start and stop recording through the Shortcuts app, but having a dedicated companion app is a much better solution. Are you using the Blackmagic Camera? What are your thoughts on the latest updates?