All iPhone 16 Models to Get a Redesigned Action Button: Report

Dec. 1, 2023

There were several rumors that Apple would switch to solid-state technology for power and volume buttons on the iPhone 15 Pro models. However, Apple ditched those plans and introduced anew Action Buttoninstead. This button replaced the mute switch which was previously a staple for all iPhone models. Unlike the mute switch, which could only be used to switch between Ringing and Silent models, the Action Button can be configured to perform a which range of tasks.

The Rumored Action Button on iPhone 16 Series

When we didn’t see solid-state technology on iPhone 15 Pro models, it appears the “mechanical” saga will continue on iPhones. Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen numerous reports suggesting the switch from mechanical buttons to capacitive solid-state buttons is in the cards for the entire iPhone 16 lineup. This will allow Apple to add more functionality to the Action Button.

Macrumorsreportedthat the revamped Action Button is under the codename “Altas”, and might feature the similar functionality seen on Home buttons with Touch ID on older iPhone models or Force Touch Trackpad on recent MacBooks.

The story also claims that the updated Action Button will be able todetect the changes in the pressure, all the credit goes to the new force sensor. Also, there are mentions of the“tact-switching functionality”, but at the moment, it’s unclear what this exactly means. It’s worth knowing that the iPhone 16 series is also rumored to include anew “Capacitive Button”with similar functionality.

The report also suggests that the upgraded Action Button will make its way to theiPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max.Even the initial prototypes of the iPhone 16 design feature an Action Button. Also, Apple experimented with different sizes for its redesigned Action Button.

With certain configurations, the Action Button was quite larger and resembled more with volume buttons. Even with different hardware configurations across different development stages, the appearance of the Action Button remained a constant. If this happens, it would mark the end of Apple’s Mute Switch era. Currently, only the iPhone 15 Pro & 15 Pro Max have the Action Button, and the iPhone 15 & 15 Plus house the same mute switch.

While these reports and pre-production information say a lot about Apple’s plans, we still are months away from the final hardware designs. The giant might change its plans, and come up with something different, which may or may not be exciting. We’ll keep you updated as the cycle evolves.