Recently, we've heard the shocking news that Apple may get rid of the Camera Control button for the iPhone 18. But this specific rumor comes from an unknown tipster, and this time, it's getting contradicted by a more well-known Apple leaker. According to this new leak, Apple may not remove the button altogether, but simplify it.
Weibo leaker Instant Digital claims that the Camera Control's pressure-sensitive modules for the iPhone 18 are still currently in trial production. However, the Cupertino tech giant may remove the capacitive sensor from the current dual-sensor design. Instead, Apple may use pressure sensing to achieve all button functions.
Currently, the iPhone 16's Camera Control button features both capacitive and pressure sensors placed beneath a sapphire crystal surface. The capacitive layer is responsible for detecting touch gestures, while the pressure layer recognizes different pressure levels (for taps, presses, swipes).
iPhone 16 Pro Max. | Image Credit - PhoneArena
According to Instant Digital, Apple's new approach may be similar to that on devices like the Oppo Find X8 Ultra, where pressure sensors can recognize light taps, firm presses, and sliding gestures.
Would you miss the current Camera Control button if Apple changes it?
Yes, I use it all the time
4.76%
No, I’m fine with a simpler version
38.1%
Never cared about it anyway
57.14%
Apparently, as the tipster claims, it's the costs that are driving the change (well, almost everything in this life is cost-driven, but hey). The current solution is said to be "very expensive" for Apple, and is also causing expensive after-sales repairs. And, according to the tipster, this is creating cost pressure for the company. We also have Visual Intelligence, which is yet to be fully released, as one of the perceived values of this button to begin with.
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Instant Digital has generally had a good track record for leaks. And personally, I think it makes more sense for Apple to simplify the button than remove it just two generations after it's been introduced (it arrived with the iPhone 16 series).
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Izzy, a tech enthusiast and a key part of the PhoneArena team, specializes in delivering the latest mobile tech news and finding the best tech deals. Her interests extend to cybersecurity, phone design innovations, and camera capabilities. Outside her professional life, Izzy, a literature master's degree holder, enjoys reading, painting, and learning languages. She's also a personal growth advocate, believing in the power of experience and gratitude. Whether it's walking her Chihuahua or singing her heart out, Izzy embraces life with passion and curiosity.
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