iPhone 16 may herald the end of clickable buttons, hints supplier order

The topic of an iPhone without traditional, clickable buttons returns recurrently. However, Apple appears unwavering in its pursuit.

We should recall that credible sources indicated Apple's plan to dispense with clickable buttons for the iPhone 15 Pro model launched last year. Yet, due to "unresolved technical issues," they shelved this idea. What remained from the initial plans was separating the volume down and volume up buttons and removing the notification switch.

It appears that Apple hasn't entirely given up on its idea but rather deferred it.

Reports from Economic Daily News suggest that the Taiwanese firm Advanced Semiconductor Engineering received a large order from Apple for components crucial for the function of capacitive buttons in the forthcoming iPhone models.

Component production is set to commence in the third quarter, making it uncertain if Apple intended this order for this year's iPhone 16 model. Should the supplier's production lines not meet exceptional efficiency, there's a possibility that Tim Cook might consider incorporating new solutions in subsequent iPhone generations.

The initiative involves adopting capacitive buttons, which react to touch without needing a mechanical push. Taptic Engine motors would be installed on either side of the iPhone's frame, simulating a click with vibrations.

This method was previously employed in the Home buttons of the iPhone 7, 8, and SE versions, but now the aim is to eliminate all physical buttons, marking a more ambitious attempt. Apple is reportedly working on a special integrated circuit to detect pressure even when the phone is powered off, or its battery is flat.

What is the rationale behind these changes? Eliminating conventional buttons would enable Apple to seal the device's structure, thus enhancing its resistance to water and dust ingress. Nevertheless, it could also escalate the complexity and expense of repairs for this model.

Ahead of leaks, the iPhone 16 - aside from the power switch, action button, and volume controls - is expected to feature a new button for camera functions. It's theorised that sliding a finger across it could adjust zoom, a light press might set focus, and a firmer press could trigger the shutter.

Apple isn't the first company to consider eschewing mechanical buttons. HTC introduced a similar feature in its U12+ model in 2018, although the capacitive buttons in that model faced performance issues.

The upcoming iPhone 16 series is anticipated to be officially unveiled in September.