Apple has recently unveiled a secret feature for iPhone users on FaceTime, allowing them to trigger 3D augmented effects using "hand signals". This exciting addition is part of the latest iOS 17 update, which can be downloaded by millions of iPhone owners.

What You Need to Know

The native video calling app from Apple has adopted the popular iMessage reactions feature, but with a twist. Instead of using secret phrases, users can activate the reactions with specific hand gestures. By adding a reaction, the camera frame will be filled with a unique 3D effect.

How to Use It

To utilize this new feature, start by initiating a FaceTime call with a friend or family member. Once the call has begun, press and hold your video box, situated in the top right-hand corner of the screen. A box will appear, offering a range of symbols such as a heart, thumbs up, thumbs down, balloon, rain cloud, confetti, fireworks, and sparkles. Selecting any of these symbols will trigger the corresponding effect on your screen, as well as the recipient's, for a few seconds.

To activate the effects using hand gestures, follow this simple guide:

• Thumbs up: Hold a thumbs up in real life
• Thumbs down: Hold thumbs down
• Hearts: Make a love heart with both hands
• Balloons: Throw a peace sign
• Rain: Hold two thumbs down
• Confetti: Make two peace signs with both hands
• Fireworks: Hold two thumbs up
• Lasers: Throw the rocker symbol on both hands

Remember that these hand gestures must be in view of the camera to work effectively. Surprisingly, they even work when a memoji is being used during the call.

Notable Details

While this new feature brings a playful element to FaceTime, there are a couple of important things to note:

1. It only functions when using the front camera, as specified by Apple.
2. The feature is exclusively available on iPhone 12 models and newer, as they are the only devices that support iOS 17.

So, if you're looking to add some extra excitement to your FaceTime calls, give these animated reactions a try!