The Mavis Camera App now supports the Atomos Ninja Phone, unlocking new possibilities for professional video workflows on iPhone and iPad. This collaboration allows filmmakers to connect DSLR and mirrorless cameras via HDMI, turning their Apple devices into powerful on-set tools. The Atomos Ninja Phone acts as a 10-bit HDMI video bridge, transforming an iPhone into a 4K HDR monitor-recorder. While the main camera captures high-quality footage internally, the connected iPhone can record a proxy file in H.265 or H.264 and upload it to cloud services in near real time.
One of the most requested features — the external record trigger — is now included. This lets users start or stop the Mavis Camera App’s recording directly from the camera’s record button. The app automatically generates proxy clips suitable for social media or immediate cloud upload, streamlining post-production and remote collaboration.
The Mavis Camera App, which received a major version 7 update earlier this year, includes advanced assist tools like focus peaking, false colour, zebras, waveform, and vectorscope. It also supports direct streaming, Frame.io Camera-to-Cloud integration, a robust audio system, and other professional features. With Ninja Phone compatibility, these tools now work seamlessly alongside high-end cameras, giving creators more flexibility in hybrid mobile workflows.
Camera-to-Cloud and Live Streaming Capabilities
The combined power of the Mavis Camera App and Ninja Phone delivers a robust camera-to-cloud pipeline. For example, a filmmaker can shoot in high resolution on a mirrorless camera while the attached iPhone records a compressed proxy file and instantly sends it to cloud platforms such as Frame.io. This integration is ideal for teams needing fast turnaround times, remote collaboration, or quick review and approval.
The system also enables live streaming from any HDMI-equipped DSLR or mirrorless camera. Whether broadcasting to popular social media platforms or custom RTMP/SRT endpoints, the setup uses the iPhone’s 5G or Wi-Fi connection for stable, high-quality streaming. This flexibility is valuable for live event coverage, professional productions, and content creators looking to maintain a mobile setup without sacrificing quality.
The external record trigger feature enhances workflow efficiency by syncing the phone’s recording with the camera’s own controls. When combined with Frame.io integration, proxy files can be uploaded almost instantly after capture. Mavis offers Frame.io cloud integration as an optional in-app purchase, expanding its functionality for cloud-based post-production pipelines.
Broader Device Compatibility and Pricing
When first announced at NAB 2024, the Atomos Ninja Phone was targeted at the latest iPhone 15 and 16 Pro models, connecting via USB-C to deliver HDR monitoring, recording, and streaming capabilities. The latest update extends compatibility to all iOS 18 devices, including older iPhones and iPads. This makes it possible for filmmakers to repurpose existing hardware for professional use, aligning with Atomos’ commitment to sustainability.
Even an older iPhone or iPad updated to iOS 18 can now serve as a companion monitor-recorder. The compact Ninja Phone module attaches to the back of the device, offering HDMI input and extra power. It converts the camera’s HDMI feed into high-quality video formats — including ProRes, H.265, and H.264 — that the phone can record or stream. When paired with the Mavis Camera App’s pro-level monitoring and recording tools, the result is a versatile workflow that blends the portability of mobile devices with the image quality of dedicated cameras.
The Mavis Camera App is available as a free download from the App Store, with optional paid upgrades for features like Frame.io Camera-to-Cloud, advanced audio mixing, and multitrack audio recording. The Atomos Ninja Phone is priced at USD $199 / EUR €199 before taxes. Existing owners can access the new integration by simply updating the app, without any additional cost.
