Summary
- Leica LUX 2.0 adds a new gallery workflow and iPhone 18 Pro support, while a silver Grip and new cases expand the mobile system.
Leica is expanding its LUX ecosystem for iPhone with the major Leica LUX 2.0 update, a new Steve McCurry Artist Look, a silver LUX Grip and new cases for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
The 24 September 2026 announcement brings software and hardware closer together: the app adopts a gallery workflow aligned with Leica FOTOS, while the Grip and cases form a more complete physical-control system for smartphone photography.
A new gallery and a more direct workflow in Leica LUX 2.0
Version 2.0 adopts the same gallery interface used by Leica FOTOS. It adds a filmstrip in detail view, multi-select in grid view and the ability to launch Adobe Lightroom and Capture One as external editing apps alongside Darkroom.
Leica has also redesigned the interface with elements of Apple’s Liquid Glass design language and alternative app icons inspired by historic Leica cameras. The app also supports the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.
The Steve McCurry Artist Look
The new Artist Look was developed with Steve McCurry and focuses on colour palettes and the interaction of light and colour. Leica stresses that it is not a preset intended to make a photograph automatically look like a McCurry image, but a starting point for creative editing.
It is the second Artist Look in the series after Greg Williams, is included with Leica LUX PRO and is also available for the Leica Q3 and SL3 through the Leica FOTOS app.
The Leica LUX Grip gets a silver finish
The new silver version keeps the existing Grip’s core controls: a mechanical two-stage shutter release, a settings dial and two programmable buttons. It attaches to the iPhone via MagSafe, communicates over Bluetooth and works with the Leica LUX app.
Leica quotes battery life of up to 1,000 shots and USB-C charging, while the LUX Grip is compatible with iPhone 12 and later models.
New leather cases for iPhone 18 Pro
The new Leica LUX Cases are designed specifically for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. They use black leather on the outside and red microfibre inside, while a new integrated camera button replaces the previous open cut-out around the camera control area.
MagSafe allows the cases to connect directly to the LUX Grip and other compatible accessories.
Price and availability
The silver Leica LUX Grip and the new cases are available from 24 September 2026 through Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorised retailers. The recommended price of the Grip is €300 including VAT and includes one year of Leica LUX PRO, while each case costs €95 including VAT.
The Steve McCurry Artist Look and support for the iPhone 18 Pro series are available from 24 September. Leica says Leica LUX 2.0, including the new gallery, redesigned interface and alternative app icons, will be available from the Apple App Store in early October. The basic version of the app is free, while LUX PRO costs €7.99 per month or €79 per year in the German App Store; regional pricing may vary.
Read more here.
What we think
The move matters because Leica is increasingly treating the iPhone as a complete photographic system rather than simply a platform for filters. For people who shoot regularly with a phone, the combination of physical controls, app and case may improve ergonomics; for occasional use, the cost of the Grip and subscription remains a significant factor.
Frequently asked questions
Does the new Silver Grip work differently from the black version?
Not according to Leica. The silver version keeps the same core controls and functions, with the new finish being the main change.
Which iPhones are compatible with the Leica LUX Grip?
Leica states that the Grip is compatible with iPhone 12 and later models via MagSafe, together with the Leica LUX app.
Where is the Steve McCurry Artist Look available?
The Artist Look is included with Leica LUX PRO. It is also available for the Leica Q3 and SL3 through the Leica FOTOS app.
When will Leica LUX 2.0 be available?
Leica says version 2.0 will reach the Apple App Store in early October 2026, while the Artist Look and iPhone 18 Pro support are available from 24 September.
