Third-party apps will be able to take advantage of iOS 17's cinema mode video using new API

Apple announced iOS 17 at its WWDC 2023 event with a wide range of forward-looking features. The platform will provide major changes in terms of visual design while improving functionality. With iOS 17, third-party apps will be able to take advantage of the iPhone's camera for better image quality. The company now announced in the WWDC 2023 video that iOS 17 will come with a new Cinematic API, which will allow third-party apps to use the iPhone's Cinematic Mode. This will have different advantages over the stock camera app.

Apple finally hands over Cinematic API to third-party apps in iOS 17, allowing developers to add professional level editing and video playback

Apple mentions in its developer documentation that the Cinematic API in iOS 17 will allow third-party apps to take advantage of the iPhone's Cinematic Mode. For example, third-party apps will be able to use the Cinematic API and implement it in their apps for enhanced editing along with playback features. The company says the new addition will allow professional-level editing, and applications such as Final Cut Pro, iMovie and other apps also benefit from the same API.

It is worth noting that Cinamtic Mode is not available on all iPhone models that support iOS 17. The company introduced the feature with the launch of its iPhone 13 models in 2021. It basically allows the device to record the video with the subject in focus while the background is out of focus. You have the option available to change the subject and shoot the video with a shallow depth of field, and Apple calls the feature "rack focus".

Rack focus has the ability to adjust focus when you move the camera from one subject to another. The whole process can be manual as you tap the subject, or the device can focus according to the camera angle. The feature was further enhanced with the launch of the iPhone 14 last year, and it is one of the most used camera modes on the iPhone.

It's great to see Apple finally leave Cinematic API support to third-party apps. It will not only give users more options, but also open a new door to editing. Apple will release iOS 17 to the public later this year alongside the new iPhone 15 models. This means that developers have time to use the Cinematic API before the official release.