Apple remains interested in haptic buttons for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch

Apple continues exploring buttonless devices, focusing on iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch despite previous setbacks.

: Apple is actively exploring eliminating physical buttons on their devices, using haptic technology to replace them. Despite keeping traditional buttons on iPhone 15 and 16, and likely iPhone 17, the company has not given up on its buttonless ambitions. Weibo-based leaker 'Instant Digital' indicates that Apple is developing touch-sensitive areas with haptic feedback to simulate physical buttons. Challenges remain, particularly in minimizing accidental touches, but Apple is also expanding these efforts to include iPads and Apple Watches.

Apple is reportedly continuing its efforts to eliminate physical buttons from its devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, focusing instead on haptic feedback technology. The company's interest in this technology aims to create a cleaner aesthetic, potentially improving device durability by reducing internal wear and tear due to fewer moving parts. Such a design shift could also enhance water resistance by removing external buttons and ports, although eliminating features like USB support would mark a significant change in design.

Despite these efforts, Apple has faced challenges, notably the risk of accidental inputs. Currently, the traditional buttons remain present on the iPhone 15 and 16, and likely the upcoming iPhone 17. Weibo-based leaker "Instant Digital," via MacRumors, recently confirmed that Apple is proceeding with its plans to introduce haptic inputs across its product lineup. These developments have been ongoing since rumors in 2022 suggested that the iPhone 15 might include touch-sensitive areas instead of physical buttons, in a similar fashion to the iPhone 7's haptic home button.

Apple's rumored aim is towards a completely smooth, buttonless, and port-free iPhone. By incorporating wireless communication and touch technology, Apple intends to enhance user experience, though tackling accidental activation remains critical. This challenge involves ensuring the accuracy of touch inputs, which the company is actively working on, according to Instant Digital. Furthermore, Apple's exploration of this technology isn't limited to iPhones alone. They are expanding their research to include other devices like the iPad and Apple Watch.

MacRumors noted that recent speculation suggests Apple could be introducing a new mid-tier model, the iPhone 17 Air, rumored to be remarkably thin at just 5.5mm. This device will potentially feature cutting-edge technology such as a 6.6-inch always-on OLED display with 120Hz ProMotion support and an A19 processor. The iPhone 17 Pro and Air models are expected to ship with 12GB of RAM, while the base model will possibly include 8GB of RAM with an A18 processor, accompanied by a slightly larger 6.3-inch display.

As Apple prepares for its 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, expectations are high for the unveiling of new software updates. These updates may include rebranding of Apple's operating systems with the introduction of iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, and beyond. This conference is crucial for new insights into Apple's future moves towards integrating haptic technology across its device range.

Sources: TechSpot, MacRumors

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