This may sound a bit amusing, but the most significant hardware enhancements for iPhones seem to center around their buttons. Following the introduction of an Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro and the Camera Control shutter on the iPhone 16 series, it looks like the iPhone 17 Pro will unveil yet another button innovation.
According to reliable insider Majin Bu, Apple is in the process of testing “a new button that will take the place of the volume controls and the Action Button that have been eliminated” on its upcoming flagship phone.
This new button is expected to offer extensive customization options and may serve as a consolidated solution for adjusting volume levels and switching profiles. Keep in mind that what we see could merely be one of many prototypes being evaluated at Apple’s design labs.
This isn’t the first time we’ve encountered speculation about Apple experimenting with alternative button designs for its smartphones. Over the past few years, there have been whispers about a capacitive volume button, but that ultimately evolved into a multifunctional camera shutter button for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro.
Given Apple’s trend of adhering to a core design language while iterating improvements, it’s unlikely we’ll see three separate button redesigns within a span of just three years. Plus, merging the functions of the profile/Action Button with the volume controls could create a confusing interface with a steep learning curve.
One practical method for implementation might involve using gesture-based sliding for volume adjustments while relying on physical presses for profile switching and shortcut actions. Additionally, if the button’s size is adequate, users could customize what single or double taps accomplish at different positions on the button.
At this point, it is premature to fully invest our thoughts in these rumors. However, it appears that next year’s standout offering may be the rumored iPhone 17 Air—an ultra-slim and lightweight model likely aimed at revitalizing Apple’s smartphone lineup. That said, it may also come with a higher price tag than even the most premium Pro Max models.
Apple has already implemented significant changes to the battery design in the iPhone 16 series, making components more accessible. There are reports that the company is also focusing on further hardware modifications to enhance repairability, aligning with upcoming right-to-repair and electronic waste regulations. It will be fascinating to see how Apple tackles these urgent hardware challenges while also unveiling a reimagined button system.
