Accessing External Timecode from Blackmagic ProDock in Custom App

Hi everyone,

I’m exploring using the iPhone 17 Pro with the Blackmagic ProDock in a custom capture app. The genlock functionality seems accessible via AVExternalSyncDevice and related APIs, which is great.

I’m specifically curious about external timecode coming in from the ProDock: • Is there a public way to access the timecode feed in a custom app via AVFoundation or another Apple API? • If so, what is the recommended approach to read or apply that timecode during capture? • Are there any current limitations or entitlements required to access timecode from ProDock in a third-party app?

I’m excited to start integrating synchronized capture in my app, and any guidance or sample patterns would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

— [Artem]

Answered by Media Engineer in 864299022

Yes! Use AVCaptureTimecodeGenerator and find the source of type AVCaptureTimecodeSourceTypeExternal in the availableSources when the BlackMagic ProDock is connected.

I guess my question is - would this API call with blackmagic prodock connected - show it as an available source? https://developer.apple.com/documentation/avfoundation/avcapturetimecodegenerator/availablesources

Accepted Answer

Yes! Use AVCaptureTimecodeGenerator and find the source of type AVCaptureTimecodeSourceTypeExternal in the availableSources when the BlackMagic ProDock is connected.

Accessing External Timecode from Blackmagic ProDock in Custom App
 
 
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