How to Use Dual Capture Video on iPhone 17

Apple’s iPhone 17 series introduced more than just upgraded hardware — it also added a new camera feature called Dual Capture. With this mode, you can record from both the front and rear cameras at the same time, producing a picture-in-picture style video.

Whether you’re vlogging, filming tutorials, or simply capturing your reaction while recording what’s happening in front of you, Dual Capture is a powerful tool. The only catch? The feature is tucked away in the Camera app, making it tricky to find.

This guide explains what Dual Capture is, how to enable it, the best ways to use it, and its limitations.

What Is Dual Capture on iPhone 17?

Dual Capture lets you record two perspectives simultaneously:

• The rear camera provides the main video feed.
• The front-facing camera appears in a movable PiP (picture-in-picture) window.

Both streams are saved as a single video file in either 1080p or 4K at 24fps or 30fps. Unlike third-party apps, you can’t save the feeds separately, swap views, or use split-screen layouts.

How to Enable Dual Capture on iPhone 17

The option is hidden under the Camera app’s video settings, but here’s how to turn it on:

1. Open the Camera app and swipe right to switch to Video mode. You can also tap the Video button at the bottom.
2. Tap the Video button again or swipe up near the capture button to access the video mode options menu. Alternatively, tap the six dots icon at the top right corner.
3. Select Dual Capture from the available options.
   

Once you’ve enabled it, a new Dual Capture toggle appears in the top-right corner of the screen. This makes it quicker to turn the feature on or off without needing to dive back into the menu.

Things You Can Do During Recording

Once Dual Capture is active, hit record and enjoy features like:

• Switch lenses on Pro models: iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max let you switch between main, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses while still using the front camera.
• Move the PiP window: Drag the selfie view around to avoid blocking key details. (Keep in mind, movements are recorded in the final video.)

Also Read: How to Use the New Center Stage Front Camera on iPhone 17

Limitations of Dual Capture

While useful, Apple’s Dual Capture comes with some restrictions:

• You can only record in 1080p or 4K at 24/30fps.
• The rear camera always remains the main view, while the front camera is locked to the PiP window.
• Unlike the Snapchat camera, which offers three different split-screen layouts, there is no split-screen layout or option to swap views.
• Both feeds are merged into a single video file, limiting editing flexibility.

Best Use Cases for Dual Capture

Here’s where this feature really shines:

• Vlogging and reactions: Show your live reaction while recording events around you.
• Tutorials and walkthroughs: Demonstrate steps while narrating on camera.
• Travel diaries: Share stunning views while capturing your commentary.
• Event coverage: Capture a performance or presentation while showing your audience’s response.

Dual Capture: Handy but Held Back

Dual Capture on iPhone 17 is a welcome addition for creators who want to capture multiple perspectives without third-party apps. Still, Apple’s decision to lock it to the iPhone 17 lineup — despite older models having capable hardware — feels more like a marketing choice than a technical limitation.

If you own an iPhone 17, it’s worth exploring for vlogs, tutorials, and real-time reactions.

How will you use Dual Capture? Drop your ideas in the comments — we’d love to know.

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