In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, Apple is known for making continuous improvements to their devices. And it seems that the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro is no exception. According to recent prototypes seen by MacRumors, Apple has made some tweaks to the design of the Action button. While the company has been experimenting with different sizes and configurations, the latest “Proto2” development stage indicates that Apple has settled on a design similar to that of the iPhone 15 Pro. This change suggests that Apple may have canceled or postponed their plans for a capacitive Action button in future iPhone models. As always, it’s important to note that these are just early development designs, and there may still be further changes to come. But it’s an exciting glimpse into what we can expect from Apple’s next flagship device.
Unified volume button with small Action button
In the early stages of development for the iPhone 16 Pro, Apple tested various button configurations and sizes for the Action button. One of the prototypes featured a unified volume button with a small Action button. This design was reminiscent of the iPhone 15 Pro’s layout, with both buttons positioned on the left side of the device. The unified volume button was originally part of Apple’s Project Bongo, an attempt to introduce haptic buttons to the iPhone 15 Pro. Although Project Bongo was ultimately canceled, the unified volume button made its way into the initial designs of the iPhone 16 Pro.
Unified volume button with large Action button and new Capture button
In a second prototype variant of the iPhone 16 Pro, Apple retained the unified volume button but made changes to the size of the Action button. This prototype featured a larger Action button that was closer in size to the volume buttons. Additionally, Apple introduced a new “Capture button” on the right side, below the power button. This button was likely intended to enhance the device’s camera features.
Separate volume buttons with large Action button and Capture button flush with frame
Subsequent prototypes of the iPhone 16 Pro showcased design changes, moving away from the unified button layout. Instead, Apple opted for separate volume buttons in these later units. The Action button was significantly larger than before and was accompanied by a Capture button, both of which were flush with the frame. These buttons also employed force sensor technology, allowing for more responsive feedback.
Separate volume buttons with small Action button and Capture button flush with frame (current)
The most recent “Proto2” design of the iPhone 16 Pro sees Apple reverting to a smaller Action button. This change mirrors the design of the Action button found on the iPhone 15 Pro, abandoning the larger, flush look seen in previous prototypes. While it remains unclear how this impacts the future development of Apple’s capacitive Action button, the significant design change suggests that it has either been canceled or postponed for future iPhone iterations.
Development stages of iPhone 16 Pro
Throughout the development process of the iPhone 16 Pro, Apple went through various stages and iterations. The earliest known prototypes featured a unified volume button and small Action button, a design influenced by the failed Project Bongo. The second prototype variant retained the unified volume button but introduced a larger Action button and a new Capture button. Later prototypes incorporated separate volume buttons and a capacitive Action button paired with a Capture button.
Proto2 design
The most recent design iteration, known as “Proto2,” showcases a smaller Action button similar to the one found on the iPhone 15 Pro. This change suggests that Apple has decided to maintain a consistent design language across its iPhone lineup. While the Proto2 design offers valuable insights into the development of the iPhone 16 Pro, it’s important to note that it may not reflect the finalized design.
Impact on capacitive Action button
With the recent shift back to a smaller Action button, the future of Apple’s work on a capacitive Action button remains uncertain. The larger, flush Action button seen in earlier prototypes would have likely utilized capacitive technology, providing users with a more intuitive and responsive touch experience. However, the adoption of a smaller Action button in the Proto2 design suggests that Apple may have canceled or postponed the development of the capacitive Action button for future iPhone iterations.
Possible design changes
It’s crucial to recognize that the current information presented regarding the design of the iPhone 16 Pro may not represent the finalized product. Apple has a history of making additional design changes even at advanced stages of development. As the iPhone 16 Pro nears its release, it is possible that Apple may introduce further alterations to the device’s design and button configuration.
For more information
If you’re interested in learning more about the rumors and speculations surrounding the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, be sure to check out the dedicated rumor roundups available on MacRumors. These roundups provide comprehensive coverage of the latest news, leaks, and rumors surrounding Apple’s upcoming iPhone models.
Conclusion
The ongoing development of the iPhone 16 Pro has seen Apple experiment with various button configurations and sizes for the Action button. From early prototypes with a unified volume button and a small Action button to more recent designs featuring separate volume buttons and capacitive touch technology, the iPhone 16 Pro has gone through several iterations. The latest “Proto2” design showcases a smaller Action button similar to the iPhone 15 Pro, suggesting a consistent design language across Apple’s lineup. However, it’s important to remember that these design changes are subject to further revisions, and the finalized design of the iPhone 16 Pro may differ from the information presented here.
