iPhone 18 to Feature Simplified Camera Control Button [Rumor]

Apple is planning to simplify the design of its Camera Control button starting with next year's iPhone 18, in a move reportedly aimed at reducing manufacturing costs. The information comes from a post on Weibo by leaker Instant Digital.

The post claims the button's structure will be streamlined by removing its capacitive sensing layer, which is the component that detects touch gestures. This change would leave the button to rely solely on pressure recognition for its functions.

Looking further ahead, the leaker says Apple plans to introduce piezoelectric ceramics to provide localized haptic feedback for the button. That upgrade is likely part of a broader move to solid-state buttons, as Apple is reportedly targeting its 20th-anniversary iPhone 20 for a complete switch that would replace the power, volume, Action, and Camera Control buttons.


The Camera Control button was first introduced on the iPhone 16, combining a force sensor with capacitive touch. The feature allows users to quickly launch the camera and adjust settings like zoom or focus with taps and swipes.

Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more iPhone updates.