Halide Mark III, the iPhone photography app gets even better

The Halide app, long regarded as one of the most capable alternatives to iOS’s built-in photography software, updates with all-new features.

The developer Lux Optics has begun rolling out Halide Mark III, a paid update that introduces an internal photo editor and a range of filters capable of simulating the look of classic analog film stocks.

These novelties expand the photography approach the company had already undertaken in 2024 with the previous version, which had offered users the possibility to bypass the image processing imposed by Apple via the Process Zero feature.

Halide Mark III: internal editor and film simulation

The centerpiece of this update is represented by the new filter system called Looks, integrated within a broader film-simulation engine. Every photographic aspect of the app can be customized or disabled, but the main novelty lies in the addition of visual effects such as grain and glow, applied dynamically based on the selected style.

Halide Mark III offers five new color interpretations, which complement the neutral shooting option and Apple’s usual processing.

Among these options we find Valencia, designed to enhance urban and natural landscapes thanks to strong contrast, deep saturation and a clear separation of colors. For those who prefer portraits there’s Rembrandt, characterized by a pronounced contrast in midtones and rich colors in the dark areas, ideal for bringing out the structure of the face while keeping skin tones uniform.

Another choice for landscapes is Nova, particularly colorful and endowed with peach-toned highlights. Those seeking a more sober and restrained approach can opt for Zephyr, which offers cinematic contrast similar to that of a traditional print.

Finally, Chroma Noir satisfies black-and-white enthusiasts with a medium contrast and a slight extra grain. All these styles support HDR technology, ensuring optimal detail recovery.

A Customized Photo Studio

The images obtained can be edited directly inside the app thanks to the new Photo Lab. This editor has been designed to be highly accessible.

A quick panel lets you switch between simulations or activate HDR, while dedicated sections are dedicated to deeper adjustments such as color balance and exposure.

The interface adapts to the user’s needs, showing only the necessary tools, but the iPad version is particularly convenient for post-production, leveraging the large screen with a dual-panel setup.

Aesthetically, the software updates accompany a redesign of the interface and a different arrangement of the virtual buttons.

The design now adopts some of the visual principles of Apple’s Liquid Glass language, keeping the essential controls always in the foreground. Focus, aspect ratio and lens selection are immediately accessible, saving the user from navigating through complex menus during the shooting session.

Non è un’app gratuita

The update maintains a flexible pricing structure. Users can choose a monthly subscription, a yearly, or opt for a one-time purchase at the cost of €69.99. Those who are already subscribed and everyone who had purchased the Mark II version will receive the new software for free.

This release marks a milestone for Lux Optics, being the first major update released after the departure of co-founder Sebastiaan de With, moved to Apple in January 2026.

The split hides complex corporate dynamics. Rumors suggest Apple had initially attempted to acquire the whole company, but talks broke down.

Furthermore, it seems de With was fired from Lux Optics after the other co-founder, Ben Sandofsky, launched an internal investigation into alleged misuses of company funds.