Here’s how action mode works on iPhone for smooth videos

iPhones have had image stabilization for videos for much longer, but the new video action mode takes it one step further. This is intended for videos that show a lot of action or movement, for example a chase scene or when you are exercising. You could also use the action mode on a roller coaster, but you usually don’t want the image to be stabilized there. In this tip we explain how it works and how to get the most out of it. We also compare it with the action mode on special action cameras.

• Which iPhones have action mode?
• What is action mode?
• How to Use Action Mode on iPhone
• Action mode vs action camera

Which iPhones have action mode?

You don’t need a Pro model to use this, as it also works on the standard iPhone 14. You’ll need one of these models:

• 6.1-inch iPhone 14 — from €1,016 | (separate device | subscription)
• 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Plus — from €1,166 | (separate device | subscription)
• 6.1-inch iPhone 14 Pro — from €1,326 | (separate device | subscription)
• 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Pro Max — from €1,476 | (separate device | subscription)

What is action mode?

The action mode ensures that you get smooth videos at times when the camera is shaking or shaking a lot, for example during a wild action. Apple says it applies advanced corrections to ensure your camera appears as stable as possible. It’s available in the default Camera app on the iPhones that support it. If you turn it on, it looks like you are using a gimbal or an action camera.

The action mode can record video in 2.8K quality and a frame rate of 60 fps. It also supports Dolby Vision HDR, so the colors also look good.

How to Use Action Mode on iPhone

That is how it works:

1. Make sure you have enough light.
2. Open the Camera app on your iPhone.
3. Swipe sideways to activate the video feature.
4. Tap the button for Action mode. This one looks like a running person.
5. Start recording.

Unfortunately, you cannot switch action mode on and off during video filming. So you will always have to stop recording first to film the sequel without action mode. Activating the action mode afterwards after filming is also not possible.

In the Settings app you can change something regarding the action mode. You can set the function so that less bright scenes are easier to see. To do this, go to Settings > Camera > Record video > Low light action mode.

Finally, under Settings > Camera > Save settings, you can choose to always leave action mode on when you switch to video mode. Turn the switch on there and you’ll never have to press the Action Mode button separately in the Camera app itself again.

iPhone action mode vs action camera

With the action mode on the iPhone 14 you always have an action camera in your pocket. However, there is still some difference with, for example, the GoPro Hero 11 Black and similar action cameras from DJI and Insta360. At GoPro it is called HyperSmooth technology. This is a method of video stabilization in which the images from the wide-angle camera are cropped. The edge around it is used for corrections and additions to the image, for example when you suddenly dive down and the camera pans downwards. This gives you the effect of a gimbal, without the need for additional accessories. Hypersmooth has been on the GoPro since the Hero 7 Black from 2018.

However, these action cameras are not completely redundant with the arrival of the action mode on the iPhone 14 models. The iPhone 14 Pro uses the 13mm ultra-wide-angle lens with a relatively small 1/2.55-inch sensor and f/2.2 aperture. On the regular iPhone 14, the sensor is slightly smaller and the aperture is f/2.4, so you need even more light for a successful action shot.

The GoPro Hero 11 Black has a larger 1/1.9-inch sensor that can also be used in poor lighting conditions. The GoPro also works at a resolution of up to 5.3K and 60 fps, while the iPhone is stuck at 2.8K and 60 fps. This action camera has even more features, such as a 360 degree Horizon Lock. This means that the images remain straight, even if you make a loop. A simpler ‘Horizon Leveling’ function was already available on the previous model Hero 10 Black, which works up to an angle of 45 degrees.

With the Action mode on the iPhone you do have a roll correction, but it goes a lot less far. The question is, to what extent are you really going to turn your iPhone around while filming? Furthermore, you have three different stabilization settings on the GoPro: normal, Boost and AutoBoost. There are situations where you want to see some movement, for example when driving over a bumpy mountain path. The GoPro also has the TimeWarp function, which allows you to combine a timelapse with HyperSmooth.

Action cameras often have a more robust housing, so you can use them straight out of the box, without first purchasing a protective case. There is often a mount to attach tripods and other holders. You don’t have that with the iPhone, but the big advantage is that it does not require an additional purchase and that you always have it with you. Ultimately, you may use the action mode on the iPhone more often than the action camera, which is usually at home.