How to Use Action Mode on iPhone 14

Whenever Apple releases a new iPhone model, there’s usually a new feature or two that help it stand apart from the previous model. Sometimes this comes in the form of a change to the hardware, but other times there are software features that are only limited to the new iPhone.

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This is true on multiple fronts when it comes to the iPhone 14 lineup, and specifically the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Apple finally removed the notch, transitioning to the Dynamic Island, which provides the hardware change that you might be looking for. Another change comes courtesy of the Always On Display, something that is only available on the Pro and Pro Max models. But with Action Mode, this is a new camera feature available across all four iPhone 14 models.

What Is Action Mode?

Action Mode on iPhone 14 is a way for you to record all sorts of content without having to worry much about destabilization or shakiness. For example, if you’re following a subject while running, your camera will inherently shake and the shot would be subpar to say the least. If you turn on Action Mode, you can have a brilliant-quality tracking shot that’s fully stabilized and ready to publish.

The iPhone 14 uses its default stock camera to help you correct shaky video as necessary. It does this by using the full camera sensor that has more overscan and roll correction to create a stabilized effect. Another concern for individuals looking to use Action Mode may be a deterioration in video quality. If you’ve used any sort of stabilizer in the past, you know that it creates a weird effect to overcorrect video, and the overall quality of the video goes down, too. Action Mode can record in 2.8k at 60fps with Dolby HDR support. Basically, you can use Action Mode without having to do much post-processing and publish straight away.

How to Use Action Mode on iPhone 14

If you find yourself wanting to use Action Mode instead of using a gimbal when recording video, Apple made it extremely easy. Here’s how to use Action Mode on iPhone 14:

1. Open the Camera app on your iPhone 14.
2. Tap Video in the bottom toolbar.
3. Tap the Running person icon in the top right corner.

Once enabled, you’ll see a notification appear at the top of the screen letting you know that Action Mode is On. Then, you can just tap the Record button to begin your video recording, along with being able to switch between the different focal lengths of the cameras on your iPhone of choice.

Change Action Mode Settings

While the iPhone 14, and specifically the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max feature the most advanced cameras that Apple has ever included, you might need a bit of help from the software. One instance that you might run into when you want to use Action Mode on iPhone 14 is when you don’t have enough light for a video to actually turn out the way that you want.

In that case, you’re not out of luck, as you can enable the ability to use Action Mode in lower lighting conditions. Surprisingly, this feature is not enabled out of the box, but you can simply jump into the Settings app if you want to turn this on.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap Camera.
3. Tap Record Video.
4. Tap the toggle next to Action Mode Lower Light to the On position.

From there, you can jump out of the Settings app and back into the Camera app. Then, tap the Action Mode icon in the top right corner, and start recording. With this option enabled, Apple states that the stabilization will be slightly reduced, but the video quality itself should be improved when shooting in dim lighting conditions. In some instances, you might be better suited to just use the standard video recording option, as opposed to Action Mode, but you can also toggle between the modes to see what looks the best for your needs.