FaceTime video UX and usability issues

[jaapnl]

I've been trying to find an answer to this, and would like to know if this really is the case in iOS 26 or if I'm missing something as it's not being widely discussed from what I've seen.

The current functionality of the app feels like it's a beta from 2010. The layout is one thing, but specific problems include bugs with the video icons getting stuck or zoomed out and major usability issues like

1) When trying to switch between own video and the caller, it's currently not possible to quickly switch the view by touching the side of the video. Instead you have to rely on the little icon.
2) It's not possible to zoom manually but only in the preset stages of the camera.

It's unbeliavably clunky to have to rely on buttons which work some of the time, and feels like a huge step backwards whereas previously it's been totally functional and fluid. What are your thoughts on it?

 

[I7guy]

It sure what the issue is. FaceTime in iOS 26 works similar to iOS 18. I don’t find it clunky at all to use.

 

[jaapnl]

That's strange, when doing video call, are you able to quickly toggle between your camera and caller's? For me when I switch the video to show my camera, the caller's camera gets hidden and there are black borders that you can't interact with, instead you have to rely on the minimize camera icon which to me feels slow and clunky.

Also to zoom on your camera, it's not possible to get the zoom wheel options, instead you have to toggle between 1x, 2x etc. Pinch to zoom works, but it's not the best option as it requires two hands to use.

Tried to check my display and accessibility options, but couldn't get the behavior of facetime to change for me.