The new Apple iPhone 16 Pro the Omotesando Apple store. (Photo by Stanislav Kogiku/SOPA … [+]
As Apple continues to address issues with the recently released iPhones, details on the upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro suggest that a key trend seen in the iPhone 16 family will be expanded.
Last year, the Action Button was added to the Pro models. This programmable button allowed users to pick from a list of Apple approved features the button would activate. With the launch of the iPhone 16 family, the Action Button was available over all four models (the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max). Not only that, but Apple’s designers loved the idea so much that they added a second button.
The Capture Button used capaciative technology to offer multiple control options, with slides, taps, and holds that are all keyed to specific functions. Future updates will add more functionality. It’s fair to say the community has embraced these buttons.
And Apple isn’t stopping at two. 2025’s iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro could feature a new button.
As reported by Maijin Bu, Apple is currently testing a new design that replaces the Action Button and the volume buttons with a single new button. The ability to slide and alter volume, as well as triggering specific software options, are obvious features although I would not be surprised if more options were made available. Perhaps the awkwardly backronymed Apple Intelligence will be offered space alongside volume and power? Or does this design free up the side button to be a dedicated Apple Intelligence button as its current functions are taken over?
The early designs of the iPhone 16 family, reported during Q4 2023, saw several iterations of the Action and Camera Buttons as Apple presumably tried out various options in scratch builds and prototypes. The same is true of any design change, including adding a new Button. While the final form factor may not be finalised, the intention is clear.
Apple has found a distinctive way to sell you a button, and it’s not afraid to use it.
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