Halide, one of our favorite camera apps for the iPhone, has received a major update. Version 1.7 includes a host of new features, including support for the iPhone X’s TrueDepth camera.
Halide update: playing with depth
Halide now includes broad support for playing with depth. According to the developers, more than half of all iPhones sold currently have a dual camera on board, so it makes sense that apps make more use of it. In addition, all new functions also work with the TrueDepth camera, which is incorporated in the ‘notch’ of the iPhone X.
Tapping the redesigned depth button opens Portrait mode. Here, Halide automatically detects faces and automatically adds a depth of field effect. You can also choose an object that stays in focus no matter how you turn your camera. When you tap an object, you immediately see a short visualization of what the depth information of your photos looks like.
The iPhone X’s TrueDepth camera has several sensors to recognize depth, and Halide can use all of these sensors to estimate depth. You can use this estimate to take portrait photos of yourself, but also export to Photoshop or Pixelmator, for example. This way you can also check whether the camera is correctly assessing the scene.
Finally, Halide now includes an augmented reality mode for the depth of field effect. If you have made a depth photo, you can ‘hang’ it in AR. If you then move around it, you will see a three-dimensional representation of how Halide took your photo. This is not only a great way to view your photos, but also an interesting way to understand how portrait mode actually works.
Also interesting: Photographing in RAW format on the iPhone: you should know this
Download Halide
You can download Halide from the App Store via the link below. To get the most out of the app, you need an iPhone with dual camera (7 Plus, 8 Plus or X). Of course, Halide also works on iPhones with a single camera lens.
→ Download Halide from the App Store (5.49 euros)