The Video Assist iPad app has received a significant update at NAB 2026, adding several new features that enhance its functionality and professional capabilities. This update introduces Advanced Masks, Record Trigger support for Canon C50 and C400 cameras, expanded Metadata Extraction for all RED cameras and the Sony Venice, and a new VTR Reports feature for generating end-of-day PDF reports directly on set.
The app, developed by solo developer and former VTR operator Bradley Andrew, has been earning its reputation as a serious contender in the industry. It connects to cameras or wireless video systems via any UVC capture card and offers a comprehensive toolset, including LUTs, Live Compositing, Focus Peaking, False Color, Zebras, Anamorphic Desqueeze, and Audio Meters. The app also supports clean video output via USB-C to HDMI/DisplayPort adapter or AirPlay for driving a separate director or client monitor.
One of the key updates is the expansion of Metadata Extraction to support all RED cameras and the Sony Venice. This feature uses computer vision to read status information displayed on a camera's video feed, allowing for the extraction of various metadata fields, such as clip name, frame rate, lens, iris, ND filter, exposure index, shutter, white balance, color correction, and timecode start/end. The camera file name can also be detected and automatically applied to clips recorded within Video Assist, ensuring consistent naming between the original camera media and the app's recordings.
Another significant update is the addition of Record Trigger support for Canon C50 and C400 cameras. This computer vision-powered feature automatically starts and stops recording in the app when it detects that the connected camera is rolling. The system already supported ARRI, RED, Sony Venice, Sony Burano, Blackmagic, and DJI cameras, and this update extends its compatibility to Canon cameras using the same output system.
The new VTR Reports feature allows users to generate PDF documents containing clip thumbnails, metadata, clip info, camera info, and notes for each recorded clip. This feature is designed for sharing selected takes with post-production or creating technical reports at the end of a shoot day, streamlining the process and reducing the need for a dedicated DIT.
Additionally, the Mask Effect has been expanded to support three separate masks simultaneously, each with independent controls for shading, color, and line thickness. This enables on-set overlaying of multiple frame line guides, such as displaying both a 2.39:1 theatrical crop and a 16:9 delivery format on the same feed.
Video Assist is available as a free download on the App Store, with a free version running in Demo Mode (with watermark) for hardware compatibility testing. The Base Subscription is priced at $129.99/year, while the Pro Subscription at $199.99/year adds additional features such as LUTs, Focus Peaking, False Color, Zebras, Compositing, ProRes Recording, and Metadata Extraction.
In conclusion, the Video Assist iPad app's update at NAB 2026 introduces several exciting features that enhance its functionality and professional capabilities. With its expanded metadata extraction, record trigger support, and VTR reports, it becomes an even more powerful tool for video professionals. The app's ability to streamline workflows and improve efficiency on set makes it a valuable asset for any production team.
