Apple could finally catch up to Samsung’s picture-in-picture video magic—this time, it’s native
Apple might be getting serious about video. A new leak hints that the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro could let you record with both front and rear cameras at the same time. Yeah, no app tricks needed. Just open your Camera and hit record.
That’s not all—this feature could be bundled with a beefed-up camera design and even bigger upgrades under the hood. If you’re into vlogging, reactions, or just filming without flipping your phone around every second, this might be the upgrade that actually feels like one.
Built-in Dual-Video Recording May Finally Arrive
So here’s the scoop. According to tech tipster Jon Prosser from Front Page Tech, Apple is reportedly working on a native dual-video recording feature for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
This means:
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You can record your face and what you’re looking at, simultaneously.
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No need to download third-party apps like Filmic Pro or Snapchat.
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A seamless picture-in-picture format, baked right into iOS 19’s Camera app.
It’s not totally new to smartphones, though. Samsung rolled this out back with the Galaxy S21. But the fact Apple might finally bring it to the native app? That’s big for creators who’ve been waiting forever.
One small caveat—Apple hasn’t officially confirmed this yet. So yeah, sprinkle that salt.
A Closer Look at What’s Coming
Leaks also suggest this won’t be the only video-centric tweak. The entire iPhone 17 series is getting some major glow-ups in the camera department.
The front camera is expected to be a 24-megapixel sensor across all models—double what the iPhone 16 Pro offered. That alone could make a serious difference in selfie video quality, especially in lower light.
Then there’s the rear setup. On the Pro Max:
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Three 48MP sensors: main, ultra-wide, and telephoto
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A possible mechanical aperture, which means you could manually control how much light gets in
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Improved low-light shooting and dynamic range
That triple-48MP combo would be a first for Apple. Samsung’s done it, Xiaomi’s done it. Now, it looks like Cupertino’s finally catching up—maybe even surpassing in some areas.
What This Means for Creators and Casual Users
This kind of camera overhaul isn’t just for filmmakers and YouTubers. It’s about convenience and flexibility for everyone.
You’re filming your kid’s birthday party and want your reactions in the same clip? Boom. Done.
Live streaming an event and want to give a running commentary while showing the crowd? Easy.
On a FaceTime call and need to show what’s in front of you and your face without flipping cameras? Now possible.
The iPhone 17 Pro could very well become the go-to device for:
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Vloggers who need real-time commentary
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TikTokers doing reaction content
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Students making interview-style projects
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Journalists capturing on-the-go footage
Design Changes Could Shake Things Up
Beyond function, form is getting some attention too.
Gone might be the square-shaped bump that’s been a staple since iPhone 11 Pro. Rumor has it Apple’s shifting to a pill-shaped or rectangular module this time. That could allow for better internal spacing and, potentially, upgraded sensor sizes.
Rumored Camera Specs (Comparison Table)
| Feature | iPhone 16 Pro Max | iPhone 17 Pro Max (Rumored) |
|---|---|---|
| Front Camera | 12MP | 24MP |
| Rear Camera Layout | 48MP main + 12MP x2 | 48MP main + 48MP x2 |
| Dual-Video Recording | Third-party apps only | Native support (rumored) |
| Camera Module Design | Square | Rectangular/Pill-shaped |
| Mechanical Aperture | No | Expected |
Apple is clearly making a push to catch up with features that Android phones have had for years. But typical Apple fashion—when they finally do bring it, they try to make it seamless and intuitive.
iOS 19 Is Playing a Big Role Too
Don’t overlook the software here.
The same leak from Front Page Tech teases a newer, cleaner UI in iOS 19—one with floating bars and updated icons. That could pair nicely with the new camera features. If dual-video recording is becoming native, it’ll need the UI support to match.
This makes sense if Apple’s serious about giving people tools to shoot and share more, without needing external apps. A native, polished dual-video UI could make other phones feel clunky in comparison.
Still Early, But The Signs Are There
Right now, it’s still early April. The iPhone 17 series is expected to land in September 2025—as always.
But when leaks like these start rolling out, they tend to hit a rhythm. We’ll probably see more detailed renders, maybe even prototypes, by summer.
Still, it’s best not to get too hyped too early. Plans change, features get delayed or dropped. But this one? Dual-video recording just feels inevitable. And if the leaks hold, Apple might finally bring it home with the iPhone 17 Pro.
