The search for the ideal new case has begun as we enter the new iPhone season. There are plenty to pick from as per usual. Not all cases, meanwhile, allow you to fully utilize the newest iPhone 16 (and 16 Pro) hardware—a departure from previous years.
This is due to the very small number of scenarios available at launch that allow you to utilize the new Camera Control button to its fullest extent without compromising.
I receive emails from producers of iPhone cases announcing their upcoming products around two weeks before each new iPhone’s release. These covers typically fit the new iPhones perfectly, based on factory samples or early speculations about specifications. However, at this year’s event, Apple revealed hardware capabilities that no 3-D printed blank would have.
With regard to the Camera Control button on the 16, the same thing has occurred once more. Users can easily access the Camera app on the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro by pressing the newly designed button on the right side of the device, which also allows users to capture images. Additionally, it has a capacitive button that enables clever swiping interactions.
Manufacturers have been taken off guard by this latter part. Many cases on the market now are labeled as “Camera Control compatible,” meaning that they technically allow you to utilize the capture button despite having an awkward cutout over it. However, this is an imperfect solution, as anyone who has attempted to reliably trigger their phone’s physical buttons through case cutouts may understand.
The better approach uses a sapphire crystal button that sends signals from your finger to the Camera control, which is what Apple and one reliable manufacturer are using. Only a few third-party lawsuits were given sufficient early notice to allow them to proceed with their first round of litigation.
As case makers get their hands on actual iPhone 16 units, we’ll see a lot more second wave cases that use this or something similar in the upcoming weeks. For the time being, though, these are your options if you want complete control over the camera on your iPhone 16 case.
Apple Silicone Case with MagSafe
Naturally, Apple is spearheading the initiative with their own case. It costs more than cases made of comparable materials, as is typical, but it also comes with the bonus of being fully compatible with the updated hardware. This case fits perfectly every time; there are no strange gaps or somewhat snug fits. With a microfibre inside, Apple’s silicone cases are really soft and feel wonderful in the hand. Its raised bumper ensures that your screen is secure even in the event that you drop your iPhone 16 facedown.
Additionally, the Apple Silicone case is entirely compatible with the new Camera Control button because they knew exactly what was coming. It features a sapphire crystal button that allows you to operate its intelligent features just like you would if you were using the button on the phone. In addition, there are amusing extras like a color-matched toast (apologies for the “magical attach experience”) that appears when the case is connected; no other case manufacturer has access to that small bit of Apple magic. Additionally, only these cases come with a guarantee to precisely match the latest iPhone hues. You could definitely choose worse options for securing your iPhone for $49 than this one. Visit the Apple Store to see them.
Apple Clear Case with MagSafe
Of course, some people are more interested in showing off their phone than in getting their iPhone to match. For those, Apple has created a completely transparent MagSafe case with the sapphire crystal Camera Control button found on the Silicone case. I haven’t used a transparent case whose bumpers aren’t a sickening yellow after a year, no matter how “long lived” or “crystal clear” they claim to be. When it comes to the yellowing of their clear casings, Apple performs better than most. Really, the buildup of dirt becomes noticeable only after a whole year of continuous use.
Since the Clear Case has a more noticeable bumper around the edge and feels more substantial in the hand, Apple most likely included a bottom cutout to allow for seamless screen swiping from the bottom. At the Apple Store, it costs $49 as well.
Otterbox Lumen Series with Camera Control
On the sides, which are more likely to yellow, they feature a splash of complementary color. They have the sapphire crystal Camera Control button because they are an Apple partner, which is another excellent feature. Since they are an Otterbox product, their drop protection is three times greater than that of the military. Notably, Apple avoids the drop protection fray by never disclosing precise drop protection metrics. Additionally, they are produced using 75% post-consumer content, which was, to be honest, unheard of in prior years. In actuality, it’s wonderful to see this degree of recycling taking place.
Beats for the 16th and Pro iPhones
It should come as no surprise that Beats offers a fully functional Camera Control cover with a sapphire crystal button given its affiliation with Apple. The fact that they’re presenting a case at all is shocking! This is an outstanding first step into the world of cases for Beats by Dre. With a contrasting microfiber inside, even a plain hardshell black case for the iPhone 16 Pro Max receives a beautiful splash of color. It truly highlights the case, but only when your iPhone isn’t within it. It would have been nice if Beats had included that pop of color on the buttons as well, so you could enjoy it while the case was in use.
Although it is beautiful to look at, the scratch-resistant hardshell is a bit
Supcase UB MAG Stand
I think Supcase deserves a lot of credit. They didn’t make the short list of manufacturers with extensive knowledge of the capacitive Camera Control button, but they did have enough knowledge to create a button that uses a conductive copper sensor to send signals. It also functions incredibly well, performing on par with Apple’s sapphire crystal button. Because th Camera Control e button on Supcase is somewhat higher rather than flush with the case like on the previous cases, it’s easier to operate without having to search for it, which may even be why I prefer it a little bit more.
The MagSafe magnet on the MAG stand doubles as a case stand, adding another layer of unnoticed utility to the device. It’s a devious little secret feature that keeps the casing from getting even thicker. The case features prominently raised front bumpers to protect your screen and is rated for a 15-foot drop. The pricing, which is an incredibly low $24.99 on the Supcase website, might be the finest aspect though.
The Ultra Hybrid Spigen T
Spigen’s Ultra Hybrid T is a last-minute surprise addition to the Camera Control club. This is another instance where the button is easy to spot, thanks to the clever functionality and combination of materials that provide a tactile sense. Like almost every other case on this list, it is constructed of translucent plastic, which leads me to believe that using that material made it easier to manufacture the capacitive button. Nevertheless, with blue resin to prevent fading and military drop protection, it promises to be strong and long-lasting. Exclusive to the iPhone Pro and Pro Max is this one. It is now available on Amazon for $28.99, which is less than its MSRP of $54.99.
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