Apple is reportedly planning to redesign the physical button layout on its iPhone models starting in the second half of 2027. According to industry leaks, the company intends to merge the dedicated Action Button with the Camera Control button, effectively removing the standalone Action Button from the device chassis.
Under the proposed design, the unified button will handle multiple functions based on interaction patterns. A single press would launch the camera, while a long press would trigger the customizable features currently assigned to the Action Button, such as the flashlight, focus mode, or shortcuts.
The Action Button was first introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro series in 2023, replacing the traditional mute switch. The Camera Control button followed in 2024 on the iPhone 16 series, featuring touch and pressure sensitivity. Apple's reported iPhone Duo foldable model already lacks a dedicated Action Button, serving as a potential precedent for this change.
The transition is expected to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the iPhone. While the exact naming of the 2027 models remains unconfirmed, the shift reflects a broader strategy to optimize internal space and consolidate physical controls. Apple has not yet provided an official statement regarding these design adjustments.
