News in Short
- Apple’s 20th anniversary iPhone could drop the dedicated Action Button in 2027, according to a tipster.
- The rumoured design may combine Action Button shortcuts with the Camera Control button.
- A long press could trigger a user’s assigned shortcut, while a tap would open the camera.
- Apple has not confirmed the redesign or the launch of a special anniversary iPhone.
Apple could remove the dedicated Action Button from its 20th anniversary iPhone next year. A new leak claims the company may shift its functions to the Camera Control button instead. The change could be part of a wider redesign planned for the 2027 iPhone.
Apple is expected to mark 20 years of the iPhone in 2027. The company introduced the original iPhone in 2007. For its 10th anniversary, Apple launched the iPhone X with a major design shift. Reports suggest the next milestone model could follow a similar path.
How Apple could replace the Action Button
Tipster Momentary Digital claims on Weibo that Apple could phase out the Action Button with its 2027 iPhone. The leak suggests that Camera Control may absorb its functions.
According to the tipster, a single press would continue to open the camera. A long press could activate the shortcut assigned to the Action Button. This approach may let Apple retain both functions without adding another physical control.
However, the report does not explain whether users will get the same level of customisation. Apple has not commented on the claim. Therefore, the proposed control layout remains speculative.
Action Button and Camera Control: What changes?
Apple introduced the Action Button with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max in 2023. It replaced the traditional mute switch and lets users assign shortcuts. Users can launch the camera, turn on the torch, activate Focus modes or run custom actions.
Camera Control arrived a year later with the iPhone 16 series. The touch-sensitive control lets users open the camera, adjust zoom and switch camera settings. It also supports Visual Intelligence on compatible devices.
Combining the two controls could simplify the iPhone’s side frame. It may also give Apple more room for a cleaner design. Still, users who rely on quick Action Button shortcuts may need to adjust to a new interaction.
A bigger redesign could be coming in 2027
The Action Button rumour arrives amid reports of a major anniversary redesign. Earlier leaks have pointed to a glass-heavy design and a more seamless display. Apple could use the milestone to rethink the iPhone’s physical controls and overall appearance.
The recently introduced iPhone 18 Pro series continues Apple’s current design direction. The 2027 model, however, could bring a more noticeable departure.
For now, Apple has not confirmed a 20th anniversary iPhone or its features. The company is also yet to reveal its 2027 launch plans. Treat the Action Button change as an early rumour until more credible details emerge.
