Apple is reportedly simplifying the design of the Camera Control button on the iPhone 18 series to reduce manufacturing costs, according to Chinese leaker Instant Digital (via MacRumors).
The Camera Control button, first introduced with the iPhone 16 lineup, lets users instantly open the Camera app and access several camera-related functions. It can also be customized to open other apps that use the camera, such as Code Scanner, Magnifier, or even third-party camera apps, providing quick access to essential photo and video tools.
On current models, the Camera Control button uses both capacitive and pressure sensors housed underneath a sapphire crystal surface — the capacitive layer detects touch gestures, while the pressure sensor responds to varying levels of force to register taps, presses, and swipes. However, the iPhone 18 will reportedly drop the capacitive layer and rely solely on pressure sensing to perform all the functions of the Camera Control button.
This simplified, single-sensor setup is similar to designs seen in the OPPO X8 Ultra and vivo X200 Ultra, where pressure sensors alone can accurately detect different touch interactions. The change aims to make the feature more cost-efficient and improve repairability, as the current dual-sensor system has proven expensive for Apple and prone to costly after-sales repairs.
The leaker also claims that Apple may adopt piezoelectric ceramics in future versions of the button to provide localized haptic feedback, potentially laying the groundwork for a broader switch to solid-state buttons for the iPhone. Solid-state buttons were once rumoured for the iPhone 15 lineup, but the idea was dropped. However, Apple is reportedly revisiting the technology for future iPhones, iPads, and even the Apple Watch.
The iPhone 18 lineup is expected to launch in stages — with the Pro, Pro Max, Air, and foldable models coming in September 2026, followed by the standard iPhone 18 and entry-level iPhone 18e in spring 2027. Next year’s iPhone 18 Pro models are also rumoured to include DSLR-style variable aperture camera lenses and full 5G satellite internet connectivity, marking another significant leap for Apple’s flagship smartphones.
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Apple over-engineered the current functions of the camera control button. It's probably easier to use if the phone were on a tripod, or if you were using both hands. I suspected that most users are just taking photos and videos with one hand.