Apple DockKit Native Tracking (iOS)
1. What is Apple DockKit?
Apple DockKit is a tracking technology developed by Apple. When paired with DockKit-compatible motorized stands, it enables iPhones with iOS 17 and later to seamlessly track subjects during shooting, keeping them in frame and centered.
2. Any compatibility requirements to enable DockKit?
To use DockKit-enabled tracking (i.e. native tracking), an iPhone 12 or later with MagSafe and iOS 17 or later is required. iOS 17.4 or above is recommended for the best experience. No additional apps or authorization are required.
*Update your iPhone to iOS 18 to experience more SmartWheel control and native tracking in all iPhone camera modes except Pano and Time-lapse.
3. How do I enable DockKit native tracking in the iPhone native camera and third-party apps?
After pairing Flow 2 Pro via NFC, simply open the iPhone native camera or a third-party app to automatically start tracking.
4. Which third-party iOS apps support Flow 2 Pro's native tracking?
Native tracking is designed to be used with DockKit-compatible video and messaging applications. Please find the compatibility list. For further clarification, please check with Apple or the relevant app developer regarding DockKit compatibility.
5. What should I do if Flow 2 Pro is not tracking me in a third-party app?
- Confirm if the iPhone is connected to Flow 2 Pro via DockKit:
- Please check for the "Flow 2 Pro Dock XXXXXX" device in your Bluetooth settings to confirm that it has been successfully paired with your iPhone.
- Check if DockKit-enabled Tracking is Ready:
- Ensure that the gimbal is powered on.
- Confirm that the gimbal is connected to the iPhone via DockKit.
- Ensure that your iPhone is running iOS version 17.4 or higher.
- Make sure the gimbal is not connected to any other phones.
- Ensure the gimbal has performed a nodding motion.
- Check if the Tracking Ring Light on the gimbal is turned on showing solid green (if the tracking indicator light is not on, please check Flow Settings in the app).
- Confirm if DockKit Native Tracking is supported by the app:
If the app does not support DockKit, please check with Apple or the app developer for more information on DockKit compatibility.
6. Why can't I use the joystick to adjust the three axes when tracking with the native camera and third-party iOS app?
In DockKit native tracking, you'll need to stop tracking first by pressing the trigger button before using the joystick.
7. What are the differences between native tracking with DockKit and tracking with the Insta360 app?
Currently, DockKit supports tracking of human subjects only (not objects or animals), but it will be continuously optimized through Apple system updates.
Deep Track 4.0 in the Insta360 app offers our most advanced tracking yet, with new features to cover all sorts of scenarios. It enables users to select and track individuals, groups, animals, and objects. Recording with the Insta360 app is recommended for dynamic environments, quick movements, or large movement ranges.
Using the Insta360 app also unlocks additional features, such as:
- Active Zoom Tracking, to follow fast-moving subjects at up to 15x zoom with no lag.
- Multi-Person Tracking, to keep your subjects centered whether filming an individual or group.
- Pro Framing Grid, to help to perfect your shots using the golden ratio composition.
8. How does DockKit select tracking targets?
- If the subject's face is not exposed, Flow 2 Pro will first recognize the body and adjust the camera to locate the subject's face.
- If the subject's face is obscured, Flow 2 Pro will start tracking other identifiable subjects.
- When multiple subjects are detected, Flow 2 Pro will adjust the shooting angle and composition to accommodate as many subjects as possible.
- For shooting a single subject, when the head turns or moves, Flow 2 Pro will adjust the shooting angle to ensure the best framing effect.
- When switching between the front and rear cameras, Flow 2 Pro automatically rotates 180° to ensure continuous tracking.
- After losing the tracking subject, Flow 2 Pro will immediately retrace the new subject.