Apple could make a major change to its iPhone design in 2027 by removing the Action Button. A new rumor suggests the company plans to combine its functions with the existing Camera Control button.
The possible change could first appear on Apple’s 20th anniversary iPhone. However, the company has not confirmed these plans.
Apple May Combine Two iPhone Buttons
According to a claim from leaker Instant Digital on Weibo, Apple could begin removing the Action Button from new iPhones in late 2027.
Instead of keeping two separate controls, Apple may transfer the Action Button’s features to Camera Control.
Under the rumored system, users could tap Camera Control to open the camera. Meanwhile, pressing and holding the button could activate a customizable shortcut.
However, this change raises questions about existing features. Camera Control already supports Visual Intelligence through a longer press.
Therefore, Apple would need to adjust how these functions work together.
Why Apple Might Remove the Action Button
Apple introduced the Action Button on the Apple Watch Ultra in September 2022. The feature later reached the iPhone 15 Pro in 2023.
It replaced the traditional mute switch and allowed users to perform different tasks quickly.
For example, users can activate Silent Mode, open the camera, turn on the flashlight, or launch shortcuts.
However, Apple has made few major changes to the feature since its introduction.
Additionally, the iPhone Duo launched without the Action Button, suggesting Apple may not consider it essential across every model.
Users can also access many similar functions through Lock Screen shortcuts.
As a result, combining physical controls could help Apple simplify future iPhone designs.
What This Means for the iPhone 20
Apple’s 20th anniversary iPhone could introduce a cleaner design with fewer dedicated buttons.
However, removing the Action Button would not necessarily bring back the traditional mute switch.
The rumored change also remains uncertain because Instant Digital has a mixed record with Apple predictions.
Interestingly, Apple previously explored expanding the Action Button concept. A 2024 patent described the possibility of adding similar controls to iPhone cases.
Nevertheless, the company’s priorities may have changed as it explores simpler hardware designs.
For now, the reported redesign remains speculation. Apple has not announced any plans to remove the Action Button from future iPhones.
