How to Flip Camera on FaceTime in iOS 12

Switching between the front and rear cameras during a FaceTime call on iOS 12 depends slightly on the specific version of iOS 12 you are running. Apple initially changed the camera controls in iOS 12.0 by placing the flip option inside a secondary menu, but later simplified the process in the iOS 12.1.1 update. This guide explains how to flip your camera view quickly regardless of which iOS 12 build is installed on your iPhone or iPad.

How to Flip the Camera in iOS 12.0 to 12.1

In the original release of iOS 12, Apple removed the one-tap flip button from the main call screen. To switch cameras:

1. Tap anywhere on the screen during an active FaceTime call to display the on-screen controls.
2. Tap the three dots (...) icon located in the bottom-right corner of the screen. This opens an expanded options card.
3. Tap the Flip button (represented by a camera icon with rotating arrows).
4. Tap the x or swipe down on the options card to dismiss the menu and return to full-screen view.

How to Flip the Camera in iOS 12.1.1 and Later

Due to user feedback, Apple restored the one-tap flip button in the iOS 12.1.1 update. If your device has been updated to iOS 12.1.1 or later:

1. Tap anywhere on the screen during your active FaceTime call to bring up the control overlay.
2. Tap the Flip button (a camera icon with rotating arrows) located directly on the bottom control bar next to the mute and end call buttons.
3. The camera immediately toggles between the front-facing and rear-facing lenses without requiring you to open an extra menu.