The Action button could appear across the entire iPhone range with the next iteration, the iPhone16. And this button itself could be subject to a technical update.
If you’re an Apple Watch user, you’re familiar with the Action button. On the Apple Watch Ultra, this is a new button that can be configured to do things like turn on the flashlight. And this button appeared on the iPhone Pro and Pro Max this year, and replaced the mute button.
And according to MacRumorsthis button will not only benefit from new features, but could become a new functionality on all iPhone 16 smartphones.
Expanding this physical button to all iPhone 16 models – instead of reserving it for the Pro and Pro Max models – makes sense in terms of manufacturing. This means Apple will have fewer components to supply, assemble and repair.
The mute button has had its day
The mute button has had its day, and if Apple can phase out this component, that represents savings in terms of components and assembly. And if Apple also manages to make the button more useful than it currently is, it will bring even more benefits. And this is precisely what will happen according to the article: “Apple plans to add even more functionality to the Action button by replacing the mechanical button with a capacitive type button” it is indicated.
A capacitive type button is comparable to a touch screen, but without the screen part. A tactile button will likely be more robust than a mechanical switch or button, and more resistant to the penetration of dirt and moisture. It will also allow Apple to program the button to do more things than a mechanical button.
For example, a capacitive button could serve as a volume control, like the one built into AirPods – which can respond to touch, movement and pressure – eliminating the need for volume up and down buttons, further simplifying the assembly and potentially eliminating other physical buttons.
Source: “ZDNet.com”