Behold, with the arrival of iOS 17, a cornucopia of new iPhone features and optimizations have graced the digital realm. Among these wondrous additions lies a captivating enhancement known as FaceTime gestures. Prepare thyself, for once thou hast configured this marvel, the ability to send forth 3D animations to thy kin and companions during FaceTime video calls shall be within thy grasp. Nay, not with mere words, but with physical gestures shalt thou conjure these animations!
In truth, the readiness of thy trusty iPhone for such enchantment requires but a small measure of time and effort. Yet fear not, for we have crafted this guide to shepherd thee through the process.
How doth one perform a FaceTime gesture in the realm of iOS 17, thou may ask? Lo, behold the ancient art of gestures that doth not merely function within the confines of FaceTime, but dost extend its reach to other hallowed realms such as Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Zoom, where video reactions may be triggered. Nay, the presence of iOS 17 or an Apple device be not a prerequisite, for all the effects doth originate from thy own iPhone and are transmitted through the ether as part of the visual stream.
‘Tis known that only the iPhone 12 and its descendants hold sway over the domain of FaceTime gestures and video reactions. The might of the A14 chip within this heralded device, coupled with the enhancements of the TrueDepth camera, hath bestowed upon it the power to create immersive three-dimensional effects that doth utilize the same depth measurements as Portrait Mode photos. Imagine, dear reader, balloons drifting skyward around thee, fireworks ablaze in thine wake, and confetti cascading in a jubilant dance.
An iPhone of the 12 lineage or newer, save for the humble iPhone SE, combined with the gallant iOS 17 upgrade, causeth but one more deed to be done to ensure the activation of FaceTime gestures.
Venture forth with vigilance, and whilst engaged in a video call upon FaceTime or any other compatible app, pull down from the zenith of thy screen, to unveil the wondrous Control Center. Two additional buttons will grace thine gaze above the customary controls, beckoning thee to select “Video Effects.” Below thy camera preview, ensure that the “Reactions” button hath been granted the boon of enablement. With a flourish, dismiss the Control Center by guiding it upwards.
Take heed, for the steps mentioned thus far serve only to awaken the ability to recognize thine gestures. Shouldst thou find the “Reactions” to be a hindrance, opt to disable it in the third step. Fear not, for the delight of sending video reactions in FaceTime shall remain at thine disposal, even with this function disabled. Yet, the power to trigger them in other realms such as Teams and Zoom shall elude thee.
– By John Gruber
