How to View and Edit Photo Metadata in iOS 15

Apple’s iOS 15 update introduced native tools within the Photos app that allow users to view and modify EXIF metadata directly on an iPhone without relying on third-party applications. This feature gives users greater control over their image privacy and organization by providing access to detailed capture information, the ability to adjust timestamps, and options to edit or remove embedded location data.

The New Info Button and Detailed EXIF Viewer

Prior to iOS 15, viewing raw camera data required third-party utility apps or Siri Shortcuts. In iOS 15, Apple integrated an Info ("i") button into the bottom toolbar of the Photos app, which can also be accessed by swiping up on any photo or video. Tapping this button reveals comprehensive technical metadata, including:

  • The camera model and specific lens used.
  • Exposure settings, including shutter speed, ISO rating, aperture, and focal length.
  • File specifications, such as resolution, file format (e.g., HEIC, JPEG, RAW), and overall file size.

Adjusting Date and Time

Users can now correct or modify the original timestamp embedded in a photo's metadata.

  1. Tap the Info ("i") button or swipe up on the image.
  2. Tap Adjust next to the date and time.
  3. Select a new date and time using the calendar picker and time scroller.
  4. Tap Done to save the changes.

If necessary, the Photos app also includes a "Revert" option within this menu to restore the original capture timestamp.

Editing or Removing Location Data

Location privacy received a significant upgrade with native geotag management. Users can change an inaccurate location or strip geotags entirely to prevent location sharing.

  • To change a location: Tap Adjust next to the map preview, search for an address or point of interest, and select the correct location.
  • To remove a location: Tap Adjust, then select No Location. This completely erases the coordinates from the photo's EXIF data.

Source Attribution

For photos saved from external sources, the metadata pane displays a "Saved from" tag. This indicates whether an image was downloaded from Safari, Messages, or another third-party app. Tapping this tag often provides a direct link back to the original message thread or source context.