It was initially believed that Apple would introduce solid-state buttons with the launch of the iPhone 15 lineup. However, due to production challenges, the company decided to wait another year to perfect the technology before submitting it on next year's iPhone. However, Apple debuted the mechanical Action Button as a shortcut key. A new report claims that Apple will expand the Action Button's functionality on the iPhone 16 lineup, combined with capacitive or force touch capabilities.
All iPhone 16 models to feature an enhanced Action Button with Touch ID and Force Touch Trackpad-like functionality
According to a new report from MacRumors, people familiar with the matter suggest that Apple plans to expand the Action Button to its entire iPhone 16 lineup. The Action Button is exclusively available on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. While Apple's attempts to bring the Action Button to the standard models are welcome, the company also plans to introduce a capacitive button system with the iPhone 16 lineup, which can detect pressure.
It was previously believed that Apple's solid-state buttons would be pretty similar to the current implementation in terms of functionality. While the buttons would not be mechanical, they would protrude from the casing. Additionally, the Volume keys would be elongated without a slit in the middle. Additional Taptic Engines will reportedly accompany the entire solid-state solution for haptic feedback.
The report suggests that the Action Button on the iPhone 16 lineup will bring further enhancements. As mentioned, the Action Button is rumored to feature "tact-switching functionality." While precise details regarding the feature are not shared at this stage, the rumored "Capture Button" was previously slated to include the same functionality. The improved Action Button is codenamed Atlas, and it is also reported that the button will feature similar functionality to Touch ID or Home Button on older iPhone models. The current MacBook models also house a Force Touch Trackpad, which shows how the new Action Button could function.
The report also mentioned that Apple is testing various sizes for the Action Button. Currently, the Action Button is more or less the same size as the Mute Switch. While the button serves its purpose, if Apple plans to enhance its functionality and make it a significant part of the iPhone experience, it could consider increasing the size of the Action key. The size of the Action Button could enlarge as much as the Volume buttons, according to the source. It remains to be seen how Apple will go about with the Action Button on the iPhone 16 lineup.
Besides the iPhone 16 lineup, Apple is rumored to bring the Action Button to the iPhone SE 4 in 2025. It appears that Apple is planning to ditch the Mute Switch altogether, similar to how the Lightning port has been replaced with a USB-C port on the iPhone 15 lineup and various accessories. Note that the iPhone 16 launch is months away, and Apple's internal decisions could change. The company could also port the mechanical Action Button on the standard iPhone 16 models as is, ditching the idea of solid-state buttons once again.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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