Apple Enhances Final Cut Camera with Genlock and ProRes RAW Support

Apple has launched a significant update to its video recording application, Final Cut Camera, now at version 2.0. This update is designed to enhance the capabilities of the latest iPhone 17 Pro and also brings improvements for other compatible models. Among the most notable features introduced are the support for ProRes RAW video recording and a new Genlock function, which will enable more precise synchronization of video recordings.

The Final Cut Camera application is available for free and allows users to import videos from their iPhones directly into Final Cut Pro. Version 2.0 is set to be released later this month, and it is compatible with iPhone models starting from the iPhone XS, running iOS 18.6 or higher. However, certain advanced features will require at least iOS 26. Users will be able to take full advantage of the hardware capabilities present in their devices, particularly with the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, which will now support direct recording in ProRes RAW format.

ProRes RAW format allows for extensive post-production flexibility as it captures raw data straight from the camera sensor. Additionally, the update introduces Open-Gate recording, which enables users to utilize the full resolution of the camera sensor rather than being limited to DCI 4K. This feature is particularly beneficial for creating vertical videos for social media platforms when filmed in landscape orientation. Furthermore, this approach facilitates post-edit stabilization without compromising video quality or performance.

Support for ProRes RAW recordings will be available in the upcoming updates for Final Cut Pro on both Mac (version 11.2) and iPad (version 2.3). Apple has also promised direct adjustments for color temperature and tint, alongside options for de-mosaicing and exposure changes.

In addition to these features, the iPhone 17 Pro will support Apple Log 2 recordings, which can be utilized in both ProRes and HEVC formats. Users will have the ability to apply Log 2 LUTs in Final Cut Pro on both Mac and iPhone. The update also brings a new Timecode function, which records timestamps and shooting sequences. This feature can be set externally, although Apple has yet to specify which devices will be supported for this functionality.

The update is compatible with the new 200mm telephoto lens of the iPhone 17 Pro, enabling 4K recording at 60 frames per second. A groundbreaking addition is the Genlock function, which allows the Pro models to synchronize with external recording devices that provide reference signals. This capability is especially useful for creating effects like Bullet Time, facilitating frame-accurate cuts. Additional hardware from Blackmagic Design, such as the ProDock, has been announced to support the Genlock feature through Apple's Genlock API.