Apple may keep the Camera Control button beyond the iPhone 17
Earlier rumors claimed it would disappear with the iPhone 18
Future versions could feature a simpler design
Rumors last week suggested the iPhone 17 would be the final model to feature Apple’s new Camera Control button, first introduced on the iPhone 16. But a new leak indicates the button will stick around, though in a slightly different form.
According to tipster Instant Digital, via MacRumors, Camera Control parts are already in production for the iPhone 18. That contradicts earlier reports claiming Apple would ditch the feature due to limited use.
There is a catch: Apple may be cutting costs by removing the capacitive sensor from the button. That’s the component that responds to swipes and light touches, allowing users to adjust things like zoom or exposure on the fly. Future versions may only rely on a pressure sensor, which recognizes harder or softer presses. How this change will affect the button’s functionality isn’t clear yet, though iOS updates could help rework some features.
When the Camera Control debuted on the iPhone 16 lineup, Apple described it as a way to “elevate the camera experience” and make advanced settings more accessible. In our iPhone 16 review, we called it the best new addition to the 2024 handsets. Still, it was left off the cheaper iPhone 16e released earlier this year.
Reaction from users has been mixed. Some see it as a powerful tool once you get used to it, while others struggle to find much use for the button at all.
What does seem certain is that Apple isn’t abandoning it yet. The Camera Control is expected to return on all four iPhone 17 models this September, including the rumored iPhone 17 Air, which may replace the iPhone 16 Plus.
