iOS 26 Screenshot Settings: How to Turn Off Full-Screen Previews

Apple’s latest update introduces new iOS 26 screenshot settings that are part of the redesigned interface powered by Visual Intelligence and the sleek Liquid Glass aesthetic. While the screenshot method—using the Side and Volume Up buttons—remains unchanged, the interface now displays a full-screen preview that many users find disruptive. If you're looking to regain the efficient thumbnail view from previous iOS versions, this guide explains how to adjust your settings quickly.

Why iOS 26 Screenshot Settings Feel Different

Before iOS 26, screenshots would pop up as compact thumbnails in the bottom-left corner of your iPhone. This made multitasking seamless, letting users capture and move on without interrupting their workflow. With iOS 26, however, screenshots now appear in full-screen mode by default. While this gives instant access to editing and Visual Intelligence tools, it can feel like overkill—especially if you only wanted to grab something simple and move on.

How to Disable Full-Screen Screenshot Previews in iOS 26

To revert to the thumbnail preview experience, open your iPhone's Settings and navigate to General > Screen Capture. Here, you'll find a toggle labeled Full-Screen Previews—just turn it off. This simple change brings back the iOS 18 behavior: small, temporary thumbnails that don’t take over your screen. Tapping the thumbnail still gives you full editing options, or you can skip interaction entirely and manage screenshots later through the Photos app.

More Screenshot Options in iOS 26 Screenshot Settings

Beyond turning off full-screen previews, the updated iOS 26 screenshot settings offer added flexibility. New toggles let you enable HDR screenshots saved in HEIF format, activate CarPlay Screenshots for capturing screen content when connected to a vehicle, and use Visual Lookup—an AI feature available on iPhone 15 Pro and newer. These additions ensure your screenshot experience is not only customizable but also more powerful, if you choose to enable the right tools.