Leica just gave iPhone photography a major upgrade with LUX 2.0 and a Steve McCurry Look

Leica is significantly enhancing its presence among iPhone photographers with the release of Leica LUX 2.0, a major upgrade to its mobile camera app, coupled with a new silver LUX grip and matching leather cases for the latest iPhone 18 Pro series. The updated app offers a more integrated experience with Leica's broader camera ecosystem, featuring a new gallery interface based on the Leica FOTOS app, a redesigned user interface, and alternative app icons inspired by Leica's iconic cameras.

The inclusion of Steve McCurry's Artist Look, inspired by his distinctive color, light, and atmosphere approach, allows photographers to begin developing their images using McCurry's signature style. Other notable improvements include a filmstrip for selecting individual photos directly from the detail view, multiselect capability in the grid for managing larger image groups, and compatibility with Adobe Lightroom and Capture One, alongside Darkroom, for advanced editing.

The app also supports the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, with additional optimizations tailored to the unique photographic capabilities of these new models. Leica's LUX grip is now available in silver, joining the original black version, and retains the same physical controls, including a two-stage shutter release, control wheel, and customizable function buttons.

The grip attaches to an iPhone via MagSafe and communicates through Bluetooth, with a battery lifespan of up to 1,000 shots before requiring a USB-C recharge. Additionally, Leica introduces new black leather LUX cases specifically designed for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, featuring a red microfiber interior and an integrated camera button for a more robust, enclosed design.

These premium accessories, including the silver Leica LUX grip priced at £260 / €300 with a year of Leica LUX PRO, and the leather LUX cases at £85 / €95 each, are positioned at the higher end of the iPhone photography market. Both the grip and cases are available from Leica Stores, Leica's online store, and authorized retailers.

The Steve McCurry Artist Look and support for the iPhone 18 Pro series are available now, while the complete Leica LUX 2.0 update, featuring the new gallery, redesigned interface, and alternative app icons, will be released on the Apple App Store in early October. Leica has already seen millions of downloads since its introduction in 2024, and the company's integration of its app, physical controls, and accessories underscores its commitment to elevating iPhone photography beyond conventional smartphone capabilities.