Render of iPhone 16 Pro showing rumored Capture button on the side
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Apple added an Action button to the iPhone 15 Pro, but there may be more on the iPhone 16. Rumor has it that it's on the way
In 2023 on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro. Max has made a big change to the button set. After years of use, the mute switch has been removed in favor of a new action button that can be used to perform a variety of functions on the iPhone, not just mute the sound. call. Although the iPhone 15 retained the switch, this may not be the case for long.
For the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, Apple may go even further by adding another button.
According to rumors, this is exactly what Apple has planned for the iPhone 16 family in the fall. At least when it comes to buttons.
iPhone 16 to get an action button
Apple often introduces features into the iPhone Pro models that eventually make their way to the standard versions. This may be the case for the iPhone 16.
Action button customization menu on the iPhone 15 Pro
In December, a report claimed that the Action button could spread to the entire iPhone 16 lineup. This will mean that the iPhone 16 will join the iPhone 16 Pro in losing the mute switch in favor of a button.
This rumor makes sense given Apple's tendency to distribute features across devices.
iPhone 16 Pro could have gotten a Shot button
The Action button can be used as a camera shutter on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, but it's not quite the same as the shutter button on a regular camera.
The traditional shutter button allows you to press it halfway to activate autofocus, and press it fully to take a photo. This is not possible with the Action button.
CAD rendering of the iPhone 16 Pro showing the Snapshot button.
Rumors have been circulating since September 2023 and have resurfaced several times, with various sources suggesting that this button is on the way. Unlike the Action button, the Shoot button will look more like a traditional shutter button.
The new button will give users the same physical control over photography on iPhone as they do on a digital camera, making it much easier for users to get started quickly.
There have been claims that the Capture button may be pressure sensitive, allowing for a half-press function. It was also proposed to make the button touch sensitive so that users could change the zoom level by touching it.
There are also rumors about a mechanical switch system. However, if Apple goes this route, it will be more difficult for case manufacturers.
In January, The Information cited two people familiar with the development of the iPhone 16 who confirmed that the “Snapshot” button is mechanical and touch-sensitive.
iPhone 16 capacitive buttons
iPhone 15 Pro rumors promoted the idea that Apple could use capacitive buttons instead of clickable ones. Complaints included the use of one long capacitive button instead of two buttons for volume control, in addition to changing the Action or Capture buttons.
The Snapshot button may be mechanical, but capacitive elements can add more functionality.
In September, rumors continued with the use of a capacitive capture button, as well as an updated capacitive action button. The buttons may include pressure sensors so that the buttons are considered pressed when sufficient force is applied to avoid accidental presses.
However, this report insisted that the volume buttons will remain mechanical rather than capacitive. The sleep/wake button will also be mechanical rather than capacitive.
CAD and Case Claims for iPhone 16
As Apple approaches its unveiling of the next-generation iPhone, images are starting to emerge hinting at what the iPhone might look like. This trend has certainly continued with the iPhone 16, and it showed how manufacturers are thinking about button changes.
For example, in April, Sonny Dixon shared mockups of the iPhone 16 lineup. The key to these metal models was the addition of a button on the right side, below the current sleep/wake button.
These metal models appeared to have the same button layout as the others introduced in March.
Various prop and body models showing the location of the Shoot button
If the Shoot button is located at the bottom right, the Shoot button will be positioned perfectly. to simulate using an iPhone as a camera. A typical camera has a shutter button in the top right corner when held in landscape orientation, with the camera lenses typically positioned in the top left corner of the back.
In the same month, supposed cases for the iPhone 16 Pro appeared on X. The images showed a hollowed-out part on the side where the “Snapshot” button should have been located.
The rip in the housing seems to indicate that the manufacturer believes the Shot button will be mechanical in nature.
CAD leaks in March also confirmed the button layout on the physical models.
While there is no guarantee that the physical models and case leaks are completely correct, it looks like Apple will make some button-related changes later in 2024.
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