Rumor: Apple iPhone 16 to get Taptic Action Button, while iPhone 16 Pro gets dedicated camera shutter button

The Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro has replaced the silent switch on the iPhone 14 Pro. This button can be configured in the settings, for example, to activate focus mode, open the camera app or turn on the flashlight. MacRumors claims to have received "extensive evidence" that the Action button will not only be installed on the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max next year, but also on the cheaper iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.

In addition, the next generation Action button will be designed as a pressure-sensitive "Taptic Button". According to earlier rumors, Apple had already planned to make all buttons on the iPhone 15 Pro pressure-sensitive, but due to technical challenges, these plans were postponed and limited to the Action button. Similar to the trackpad on a MacBook Pro or the Home button on the iPhone SE, the Action button will not be moved; instead, Apple will simulate a click using the iPhone's vibration motor, known as the Taptic Engine.

Since the button detects how hard it is pressed, different functions can theoretically be triggered, depending on whether the button is touched lightly or pressed firmly. Apple is also said to be adding another Taptic button that will serve as a dedicated camera shutter release. This button, which is supposedly reserved for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, will be installed at the bottom of the right side of the frame to improve handling when taking photos.