At yesterday’s “Awe Dropping” event, Apple wasn’t just about new hardware. Alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple Watch updates, and AirPods Pro 3, the company introduced Final Cut Camera 2.0, the first major update to its professional video recording app since its launch in June 2024.
The new version will be available later this month as a free download or update through the App Store.
ProRes RAW on iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max
The biggest upgrade is ProRes RAW recording, bringing desktop-class flexibility to mobile. RAW video allows adjustments to exposure and white balance after capture, while ProRes ensures efficient editing. This powerful combination is exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, taking advantage of the new A19 Pro chip and the advanced triple-camera system we covered yesterday.
To close the loop, Apple will also release Final Cut Pro 11.2 for Mac and Final Cut Pro 2.3 for iPad, ensuring editors can work with ProRes RAW footage shot on iPhone without breaking workflow.
Open-gate recording and genlock
Final Cut Camera 2.0 adds open-gate recording, using the entire camera sensor for a wider field of view at resolutions beyond DCI 4K. For multi-camera setups, the app now supports genlock on iPhone 17 Pro, allowing external devices to stay in sync with Apple’s new handsets.
A dedicated Genlock API will let developers integrate this feature into third-party gear.
Front camera upgrades and new tools
The update extends Center Stage to the entire iPhone 17 family, enabling both horizontal and vertical video capture without rotating the phone. That pairs well with the 18MP front camera Apple highlighted yesterday, especially for creators making vertical content.
Additional updates include:
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Apple Log 2 support on iPhone 17 Pro models for greater dynamic range
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A Timecode feature for embedding time-of-day, record-run, or external timecodes
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ProRes capture from the new 200mm telephoto lens at up to 4K/60fps
A tighter ecosystem for creators
Apple is clearly positioning the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max not just as smartphones but as serious production tools. Paired with Final Cut Camera 2.0 and the upcoming Final Cut Pro updates on Mac and iPad, yesterday’s announcements show Apple building an end-to-end ecosystem for mobile creators, from capture to edit.
Missed the event?
Here is a rundown of all the devices announced at Apple’s September 9 event!
