Record both cameras iPhone: what has to be true
Recording both cameras at the same time is a hardware feature first. Apple's multi-camera framework runs on the A12 chip and later, so the iPhone XS and newer can do it and older phones cannot. If your phone qualifies, the rest is software.
On the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple's Camera app includes Dual Capture. On the iPhone XS to iPhone 16 you need a third-party app, because the Camera app records one camera at a time.
What makes a good two camera app
The App Store has plenty of apps with "dual" in the name. They are not all the same. Before you install one, check:
- It records at the same time. Some apps alternate between cameras or take two photos. Read the description for "simultaneous" or "at the same time".
- The price after installing. Free download does not always mean free to use. Watch for time limits, watermarks and weekly subscriptions.
- Privacy. A camera app sees your face, your home and the people around you. Prefer one that keeps recordings on the device.
- Hands-free control. When you are filming yourself you cannot always reach the screen. Voice control or a watch remote helps.
Lookout: a free dual camera video app
Lookout is the dual camera video app we build. It records the front and back cameras together in one synced take on any iPhone with an A12 chip or newer running iOS 17 or later. It is free, needs no account, and keeps every recording on your phone.
- Voice control: say "Hey Lookout" to start recording, zoom or take photos.
- Apple Watch: see both camera feeds on your wrist and start or stop recording from across the room.
- Black-screen mode: the display goes dark while recording continues.
- Mac: the Mac version records your webcam and an iPhone camera together.
Four setups that work
| Setup | Back camera | Front camera | Where the phone goes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vlog | The view | You talking | Hand grip or small tripod |
| Interview | Your guest | You | Upright on a table between you |
| Tutorial | Your hands or the whiteboard | Your face | Stand angled down at the work |
| Car | The road | The cabin | Dashboard or windscreen mount |
Common problems
Recording stops by itself. Usually heat, storage or an app switch. Record shorter segments, check free space and turn on Do Not Disturb.
One view is too dark. The cameras face opposite directions, so one of them is usually facing the light. Turn so neither camera looks straight at a window.
No sound. Microphone access was refused. Turn it on in Settings, under the app's name.