The Economic Daily report reveals that Apple plans to make major changes to the iPhone next September, in addition to integrating artificial intelligence in iOS 18.
According to the article, all mechanical buttons on the iPhone 16 series will be replaced with capacitive ones. Apple has reportedly placed a large order with Advanced Semiconductor Engineering (ASE) for capacitive buttons that will be implemented across the new iPhone 16 series.
This change includes the Power Button, Volume Button, Action Button and a new Capture Button. The new Capture Button will act as a shutter button for photos and a record button for video. The function of this button is expected to make it easier for users, as swiping it will adjust the zoom level and half-pressing it will focus on the scene or subject being photographed.
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Instead of requiring pressure on mechanical buttons, the operation of capacitive buttons will be based on the touch of a finger. Although they do not move when pressed, they will provide haptic feedback indicating that the touch was captured by the device, using two Taptic Engine motors to create vibration.
Originally, Apple planned to use solid-state capacitive buttons in the iPhone 15 series, but technical problems forced the postponement of these plans. However, for the iPhone 16, Apple appears to be pursuing the implementation of capacitive buttons as part of "Project Bongo".
Capacitive buttons offer the advantage of greater durability in use, as they do not wear out easily like mechanical buttons. With smartphones becoming even more expensive, users want devices that will last, and capacitive buttons seem to offer a solution for long-term iPhone durability and functionality.
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