Apple is rumored to be planning a major design overhaul for its upcoming iPhone 16 series, with the introduction of a no-button design. According to a report from Asia’s Economic Daily News, Apple has secured a significant order for capacitive button components from Taiwanese supplier Advanced Semiconductor Engineering. These components are expected to be used in the iPhone 16 series, replacing the traditional physical buttons on the sides of the device with capacitive versions that utilize haptic feedback technology.
Capacitive buttons detect pressure and simulate the sensation of pressing a physical button through vibrations generated by Taptic Engine motors, offering a unique interaction paradigm for users. However, it’s important to temper expectations, as the order for capacitive components may be part of Apple’s forward-looking production strategy rather than indicative of immediate implementation in the iPhone 16 lineup.
Apple has previously experimented with haptic power and volume buttons in iPhones under the codename “Project Bongo.” This project aimed to redefine the user experience with innovative button designs. Despite initial enthusiasm, technical hurdles led to the project’s abandonment in 2023, with Apple reverting to mechanical buttons for the iPhone 15 series.
While the latest report suggests that production of capacitive components will commence in the third quarter of this year, observers remain cautious about immediate implications for the iPhone 16 series. Apple’s production timelines and product decisions often undergo last-minute revisions, as evidenced by past releases. The iPhone 16 series is expected to launch in September, just like every year. Stay tuned to India Today for all the latest updates.
