According to a recent claim by a tipster on Weibo, Apple is planning to remove the camera control button from the future iPhone 18 series. The tipster alleges that Apple has informed its suppliers that it will no longer purchase the component used for the camera control button, signaling a potential design shift in the upcoming iPhone lineup. However, the source has no proven track record, and the information lacks credible confirmation, so it should be treated cautiously.
The Camera Control Button: A Brief Background
Apple introduced the camera control button as a new capacitive switch with the iPhone 16 series. The button provides users advanced tactile control over camera functions, aiming to mimic professional camera experiences. This feature is confirmed to continue in the forthcoming iPhone 17 models launching in 2025.
Why Would Apple Drop the Camera Control Button?
The tipster suggests the reason behind discontinuing the camera control button is low user engagement, implying that most iPhone users do not find it useful. Removing the button could help Apple reduce production costs by cutting out this hardware component.
Mixed Reception from Users
Since the camera control button rolled out with the iPhone 16, it has received mixed reviews. Some users appreciate the tactile feel and enhanced control, which are reminiscent of professional cameras. Conversely, other users find the button unnecessary or ineffective in performing its intended functions.
Despite these mixed reactions, Apple has likely been monitoring usage closely and may have anticipated the low adoption rate.
Is Apple Really Planning to Remove It?
While the tip seems plausible superficially, there are reasons to question its accuracy. The tipster has no established history of reliable leaks. Also, with the iPhone 17 not yet officially launched, it is premature to predict design changes for the iPhone 18, which will debut presumably a year later. Given the recent addition of the camera control button and its critical positioning as a camera feature, Apple might continue to retain or refine it instead of eliminating it altogether.
The fate of the camera control button on the iPhone 18 remains uncertain. While the tipster claims Apple is dropping the feature due to low engagement and cost-cutting, the lack of credible sources and the early timeline warrants skepticism. As Apple approaches the iPhone 17 launch, more reliable information will emerge, clarifying whether the button will continue or be removed in the future.