Parkinson's: Apple shows how Action Mode helps with photography
Apple shows in two videos what people with the neurological disorder have to do to use their iPhone for filming.
Use of the iPhone camera by a person with Parkinson's disease.
(Image: Apple)
People who suffer from Parkinson's disease can still record attractive videos with the so-called Action mode. Apple has described how this works in a new short film including an instructional video (see below), in which three sufferers talk about their everyday lives. Action mode, also known as Action Mode, is actually used to record smooth videos when you are on the move – while jogging or hiking, for example, as Apple explains. However, the function is also helpful if your hands tremble due to Parkinson's disease (tremor).
All iPhones from series 14 – with one exception
Action mode is available from iPhone 14 onwards and can also be used with the 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max models. Unfortunately, this feature is not available on the affordable iPhone 16e, which was launched in February 2025. It can be assumed that all four iPhone 17 models, which are expected in September, will feature Action Mode.
Videos by heise
Apple's short film, which also includes sample videos, features Brett, who was diagnosed at the age of 36 – which is unusually young for Parkinson's disease. He has worked with cameras all his life, he says, which he can no longer do. With the action mode, this is possible again. For example, you can see him recording a video of his son on his bike – including panning shots. This succeeds despite comparatively large hand tremors.
Non-disabled people also benefit from accessibility
In addition to using the action mode, voice control functions can also be used by people with Parkinson's – Apple's Voice Control allows the iPhone to be controlled without touching it, for example to start the camera and begin recording. "For someone like me who has used cameras for 30 years, it's life-changing that this is possible again," says Brett.
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Like Voice Control, Action Mode is a standard feature on the iPhone. Apple regularly updates the accessibility features on its devices. The exciting thing is that the so-called operating aids often make it easier for non-disabled people to use the devices. For example, the double tap on the Apple Watch originally comes from this area. It is also possible to operate an iPhone or iPad completely blind using on-board tools.
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(bsc)
