Apple is reportedly facing unresolved technical issues with its new solid-state button design for the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models. This has led the company to opt for the conventional physical button design instead. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has provided new details about the devices, revealing that the solid-state buttons were intended to simulate the sensation of pressing buttons without them actually moving. However, the new design encountered several difficulties, causing the company to revert to the conventional design.
Unknown Button Layout for iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
While it is still unknown whether the button layout of the new models will consist of two volume buttons or one elongated volume button, Kuo believes that Apple still has time to make design adjustments. As the iPhone 15 Pro is currently in the EVT development stage, there is room for further modifications.
Impact on iPhone Component Suppliers
The change in button design is unlikely to significantly affect the Pro models’ mass production schedule or shipments. However, it may negatively impact Cirrus Logic and AAC Technologies, two important suppliers of iPhone components based on the Taptic Engine. The solid-state button design may not be implemented until the iPhone 16 series in 2024, according to tech analysts Jeff Pu and Shelly Chou.
Expected Design Changes for iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
Recent reports suggest that the iPhone 15 Pro will feature new buttons, a titanium frame with rounded edges, and a massive camera bump. The camera hump is expected to become thicker, with individual camera protrusions increasing once more. The iPhone 15 Pro Max, on the other hand, may have a smaller camera protrusion housing a periscope zoom lens. Both devices are anticipated to have all-new sensor technology that captures more light and reduces overexposure or underexposure in certain settings.
USB-C Port and Charging
All iPhone 15 models are expected to have a USB-C port, but the fastest charging will only be possible with USB-C cables approved by Apple.
In conclusion, the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models may not have solid-state buttons due to unresolved technical issues. Apple has opted for the conventional physical button design instead, which may impact component suppliers but is unlikely to affect mass production schedules or shipments.
The new models are expected to feature new buttons, a titanium frame with rounded edges, and a larger camera bump for the iPhone 15 Pro. The iPhone 15 Pro Max may have a smaller camera protrusion housing a periscope zoom lens. Both devices are anticipated to have all-new sensor technology that improves photo quality in certain settings, as well as a USB-C port for charging.
