Apple Tests Solid-State Buttons for 20th Anniversary iPhone

Key Takeaways

• Apple is testing solid-state buttons that work with gloves, wet hands, and extreme temperatures
• The anniversary iPhone may feature under-display Face ID and selfie camera via tandem OLED
• A dedicated low-power chip provides haptic feedback even when the phone is off

Solid-State Buttons Make a Comeback

Apple shelved solid-state buttons when developing the iPhone 15 Pro series. Now they're back on the table. Chinese tipster Instant Digital reports that Apple is actively testing the technology for a special 20th anniversary iPhone, expected to launch in 2027.

The original iPhone debuted in January 2007. A 20th anniversary edition would mark two decades of the device that reshaped mobile computing. According to the report, Apple wants this model to stand apart with a quad-curved display that blends seamlessly into the device's sides. Solid-state buttons would complete the all-glass aesthetic.

Testing Covered Real-World Scenarios

The tipster claims Apple's solid-state buttons passed rigorous testing across multiple use cases. These included pressing the buttons while wearing gloves, with wet hands, and in extreme temperature conditions. All three scenarios have historically caused problems for capacitive touch controls.

A dedicated low-power chip powers the buttons. This chip registers presses and delivers haptic feedback even when the phone is completely switched off. That's a notable detail. Current iPhones require the device to be on for haptic responses to work.

Under-Display Everything

The anniversary iPhone may finally eliminate the Dynamic Island. The report suggests Apple will move both Face ID sensors and the selfie camera beneath the display using dual-layer OLED technology, commonly called tandem OLED. This approach stacks two OLED panels, allowing components to hide behind the screen while maintaining display quality.

Apple may also remove the physical earpiece. The report mentions "under-display sound" as a replacement. Google's Pixel 5 and LG's G8 used similar technology, vibrating the display itself to produce audio for phone calls. The approach works but typically sacrifices some sound quality compared to traditional speakers.

Both the display and the curved sides will reportedly use next-generation Ceramic Shield protection with improved scratch resistance. Apple introduced Ceramic Shield with the iPhone 12. Each generation has incrementally improved durability.

Battery and Charging

The report claims the anniversary iPhone will pack a 6,000mAh battery. For context, the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 4,441mAh cell. A 6,000mAh battery would represent a 35% increase in capacity. The device will also include reverse wireless charging, letting users charge AirPods or other accessories by placing them on the back of the phone.

Reliability Questions Remain

Instant Digital has a mixed track record. Chinese tipsters often have supply chain access that Western analysts lack, but accuracy varies widely. Apple abandoned solid-state buttons for the iPhone 15 Pro reportedly due to supply chain issues, not technical failures. Whether those issues have been resolved remains unclear.

Apple typically releases special edition iPhones alongside its standard lineup. The iPhone X marked the 10th anniversary in 2017 with Face ID and an edge-to-edge display. A 20th anniversary model would need similarly dramatic changes to justify the occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the 20th anniversary iPhone launch?

Apple is expected to release it in 2027, marking 20 years since the original iPhone debuted in January 2007.

What are solid-state buttons on an iPhone?

Solid-state buttons have no moving parts. They use pressure sensors and haptic feedback to simulate a button press, allowing for a seamless device exterior.

Will the anniversary iPhone have a notch or Dynamic Island?

According to the report, Apple plans to move Face ID and the selfie camera under the display using tandem OLED technology, potentially eliminating both.

How big is the rumored battery?

The report claims a 6,000mAh battery, which would be about 35% larger than the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Is this report reliable?

The source is Chinese tipster Instant Digital. Chinese tipsters often have supply chain access, but their accuracy varies. Treat this as early speculation.

Source: GSMArena.com / Michail