How to use a self timer for video recording on iPhone 16

How do I use a self timer to record a video on my iphone 16


iPhone 16, iOS 26

Posted on Feb 21, 2026 12:59 PM

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Posted on Feb 21, 2026 2:24 PM

Apple does not currently offer self timer to start a video recording. However, you can use the remote function on an Apple Watch to start and stop recordings and a Bluetooth remote can be used.


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 21, 2026 2:24 PM in response to Samtara1

Apple does not currently offer self timer to start a video recording. However, you can use the remote function on an Apple Watch to start and stop recordings and a Bluetooth remote can be used.


Apple and Apple Support do not participate in the communities here. They only moderate our posts to insure all user guidelines are followed in regard to content and user behavior. Your comments and will not be reviewed by Apple. Apple will make changes based partially on the feedback they receive through their official channel, linked below .


Product Feedback - Apple

Feb 21, 2026 9:14 PM in response to Samtara1

You can easily create a Shortcut that would countdown the timer for you and then activate recording from the back camera (or the front facing camera) until you press the Stop button manually. Here is how:


Open Shortcuts app ➡️ All Shortcuts (under Library tab) ➡️ Tap on the + button (Top Right) ➡️ Search for and Tap on Wait ➡️ Tap on second and change to the desired wait time ➡️ Search for and Tap on Take Video ➡️ Search for and Tap on Save to Photos ➡️ Press Back Arrow (top left) and your short cut is ready to use.

Rename the shortcut by Pressing and Holding on the shortcut to reveal the submenu. Choose Rename and name the shortcut.


Tap on the finished shortcut and it should activate immediately. Stop the video manually and then choose Use Video. Your video will then be saved to the Photos app.


Axel F.





How to use a self timer for video recording on iPhone 16

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