Apple Streamlines Camera Control Button on iPhone 18 to Cut Costs
January 8, 2026
Apple is reportedly working on simplifying the design of its Camera Control button for the upcoming iPhone 18, aiming to reduce manufacturing costs, according to an established Chinese leak.
Current Camera Control Button on iPhone 17
The existing Camera Control button on iPhone 17 models uses a combination of sensors beneath a sapphire crystal surface:
- Capacitive sensors: Detect touch gestures.
- Pressure sensors: Recognize different pressure levels, enabling taps, presses, and swipes.
Proposed Changes for iPhone 18
According to Weibo-based account Instant Digital, Apple plans to eliminate the capacitive sensing layer, leaving only pressure sensing in the next-generation devices. This change is part of Apple's effort to cut costs while maintaining full camera control functionality.
Design Similarities to Other Devices
This single-sensor approach is comparable to designs seen in devices like:
- OPPO X8 Ultra
- vivo X200 Ultra
These devices rely solely on pressure sensors to recognize interactions such as light taps, firm presses, and sliding gestures.
Future Innovations
Leaker Instant Digital also hints at the later adoption of piezoelectric ceramics to provide localized haptic feedback. This could enable solid-state buttons, possibly as part of Apple's broader initiative to overhaul physical buttons, potentially debuting in the iPhone 20, marking the device's 20th anniversary.
Clarification on Camera Button Changes
Instant Digital previously disputed rumors suggesting the removal of the Camera Control button entirely, clarifying that the simplification is primarily a cost-saving measure rather than a functionality reduction.
Expected Launch Timeline
- iPhone 18 series (Air, Pro, Max, foldable): Expected September 2026.
- iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e: Expected in 2027.
Additional Apple Tech Developments
Foldable iPhone with Crease-Free Display
At CES 2026, Samsung Display showcased a crease-less foldable OLED panel, hinting at Apple's potential use of advanced foldable screens in future iPhones.
No iPhone 18 Launch This Year
Multiple reports suggest that Apple might skip launching a standard iPhone 18 in 2026, implying a major overhaul in its release cycle with the next launch possibly delayed to spring 2027.
Special Edition Products
Lunar New Year AirPods Pro 3
To celebrate Lunar New Year, Apple released a limited edition of AirPods Pro 3 featuring a unique Year of the Horse emoji. Available in regions like China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore, these collectible earbuds are now on sale.
Software and Hardware Updates
Improved Wi-Fi with Wi-Fi 6E
With the roll-out of iPadOS 26.2 and macOS 26.2, Apple has enhanced Wi-Fi speeds for compatible devices supporting Wi-Fi 6E, including recent iPad Pro, iPad Air, and MacBook models.
Logitech Certificate Issue
In a recent mishap, Logitech's macOS apps experienced a service disruption after a security certificate expiration, affecting devices like MX Master mice and MX Keys keyboards.
Anker's New Products and Discounts
Anker announced pre-order discounts on upcoming Nano Chargers and Nano Docking Stations at CES, along with a significant New Year's sale offering discounts on various charging accessories.
AirPods New Year Sales
Post-holiday sales include discounts on AirPods Max, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods 4, available through retailers like Amazon.
Apple Card Transition to JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase is set to take over the operations of the Apple Card, replacing Goldman Sachs, following negotiations that have been ongoing for over a year.
Images representing foldable display tech, new iPhone designs, or AirPods editions can be included as needed.