Future iPhones May Have All Buttons as Action Buttons

The latest addition to the iPhone lineup, the customizable Action button, may find its way into other Apple devices like the iPad and Mac in the future. There’s also the potential for upcoming iPhones to feature multiple Action buttons. Recently, the U.S. Patent Office published a patent application (via Patently Apple) that investigates these possibilities.

The iPhone Action button debuted with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, eventually extending to all models of the iPhone 16 series. This multifunctional button allows users to personalize their device experience, offering rapid access to frequently used features with just a click.

Located on the left side of the phone, users can activate various functions by simply pressing or holding the button. Its customization options include actions like toggling silent mode, turning on the flashlight, launching the camera, activating shortcuts, recording voice memos, and much more. Furthermore, Apple has opened the door for third-party app integrations, which enhances the button’s functionality.

According to the new patent, Apple is exploring the feasibility of incorporating three Action buttons on the left side of future iPhones. While the total number of buttons would remain unchanged, current volume buttons could be transformed into entirely customizable options. Similar functionalities may also appear on the next generation of iPads, Apple Watches, Macs, and other Apple devices.

Apple’s patent application highlights the necessity for electronic devices that provide quicker and more effective means of communicating and updating status information. These innovations may enhance or even replace conventional methods of delivering and refreshing such information.

Even if the patent gets approval, it doesn’t ensure Apple will implement Action buttons across various devices; however, the company is clearly considering this prospect.

Is this a smart move? Potentially! Increasing the functionality of buttons can be beneficial, although there might be a learning curve involved. An Action button on a future iPad seems highly practical, especially considering the extra space available on a Mac for such features.