Apple introduced “Open Gate” video recording as one of the professional camera upgrades in the iPhone 17 Pro lineup. The feature lets users record using the entire sensor in a 4:3 aspect ratio, offering greater flexibility for reframing vertical and horizontal content in post-production. While this was originally marketed as a Pro-exclusive capability, a third-party app called OpenCam: Wide Video Camera now makes the same open gate experience and advanced recording controls available on older iPhones.
Developed by Zhenqi Zhao, OpenCam is available on the App Store for devices running iOS 17 or later. The app supports iPhone 12 and newer, allowing users to shoot in full-sensor 4:3 without the standard 16:9 crop. This extends one of the iPhone 17 Pro’s most notable camera upgrades to earlier models while adding features that Apple’s native Camera app does not offer.
Unlike most video apps that focus on basic exposure adjustments, OpenCam introduces several professional-level options. It supports Apple Log, enabling a high-dynamic-range color profile that gives editors more flexibility during post-production. It also records in ProRes, the same codec used in Apple’s professional camera workflow, ensuring better color precision and less compression loss during editing. In addition, users can choose variable HEVC bitrates, allowing them to balance video quality and file size according to their workflow.
Beyond its codec and color options, OpenCam includes manual controls for focus, ISO, shutter speed, and white balance, with an interface designed for fast access to all key parameters. It also offers waveform and histogram monitoring, cinematic stabilization, and 60fps recording support. The app’s design emphasizes lightweight performance while maintaining advanced control, making it a suitable alternative to apps like Blackmagic Camera for iPhone.
While OpenCam’s implementation differs from Apple’s built-in open gate system, it still captures the creative flexibility that the 17 Pro offers. Apple’s native setup integrates ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, timecode, and genlock features that rely on new hardware. OpenCam instead focuses on giving creators the wider framing, Apple Log, and ProRes benefits across older devices that support iOS 17.
For filmmakers, vloggers, and content creators, OpenCam effectively back-ports one of Apple’s headline video features. iPhones such as the 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 can now record in open gate 4:3, with Apple Log and ProRes codecs, without needing the newest hardware.
OpenCam is available for download on the App Store.
