iOS 26.1 Beta 4 Adds Toggle to Turn Off Lock Screen Camera Swipe

iOS 26.1 Beta Introduces Long-Awaited Lock Screen Camera Toggle.Apple has responded to a years-old user request with its latest iOS 26.1 beta. The update introduces a new setting that lets users disable the camera shortcut on the Lock Screen. This change provides greater control over device accessibility and privacy.According to reports from Bloomberg and MacRumors, the feature appeared in the fourth beta release. It directly addresses accidental activations and potential privacy concerns from the previous mandatory swipe gesture.

How the New Camera Lock Setting Works

The new toggle is located within the Settings app. Users can navigate to the Camera section to find the “Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera” option. Turning this switch off disables the left-swipe gesture permanently.This resolves a common frustration for many iPhone owners. The swipe gesture was easy to trigger unintentionally. It also allowed anyone with physical access to the phone to open the camera instantly.

A Significant Shift in User Control and Privacy

This update marks a notable policy change for Apple. The company has historically limited customization of core Lock Screen functions. Providing this option acknowledges diverse user needs for privacy and interface preferences.The setting gives users power over their device’s immediate functionality. It is particularly useful for parents and professionals who wish to restrict quick camera access. This small toggle represents a larger step toward personalized iPhone security.

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The new iOS 26.1 Lock Screen camera toggle is a clear win for user customization. This feature finally gives iPhone owners control over a long-standing default behavior. It highlights Apple’s ongoing efforts to refine the iOS experience based on direct feedback.

Thought you’d like to know

Which iOS version includes this new setting?

The setting is available in the iOS 26.1 beta. It is expected to roll out to all users in the final public release of iOS 26.1. The feature is not present in the current public iOS 26.0 build.

Where is the toggle located in Settings?

You can find the switch in the Camera section of the Settings app. Look for “Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera.” Tapping it disables the left-swipe gesture from the Lock Screen.

Can I still open the camera from the Lock Screen?

Yes, alternative methods remain available. You can still use the camera icon on the Lock Screen if the swipe is disabled. The Control Center shortcut also provides another way to launch the camera quickly.

Why did Apple add this feature now?

User feedback likely drove the decision. Many have requested this option for years to prevent accidental launches. It also addresses privacy concerns about unsanctioned camera access.

Will this setting affect other Lock Screen functions?

No, it only disables the left-swipe gesture for the camera. All other Lock Screen features and shortcuts will continue to work normally. Notifications, widgets, and other swipe directions are unaffected.