iPhone 18: Apple focuses on simplifying the camera button

The iPhone 18 is already causing controversy a year before its official launch. The camera control button, in particular, is at the center of rumors. While some reports claimed that Apple was planning to do away with it again, a well-known Chinese leaker has now contradicted this. According to the report, the button will remain, albeit in a revised form.

The camera control button was a true innovation with the iPhone 16 series. It made it possible to capture photos and videos using touch and pressure, bringing a bit more control to mobile photography. However, the technology behind it was complex, expensive, and prone to costly repairs. For the iPhone 18, Apple is apparently taking a more pragmatic approach: The button remains, but will be slimmer and less expensive.

Apple plans simplification instead of abolition

According to leaker Instant Digital, the camera control modules for the iPhone 18 are currently in test production. Instead of removing the button entirely, Apple is omitting the capacitive sensor that previously controlled touch gestures. The function will be handled exclusively by pressure sensors in the future.

Pressure sensors take over all functions

In the iPhone 16 models, Apple still uses a dual-sensor design. A capacitive layer beneath a sapphire glass surface detects light touches, while an additional force sensor registers various pressure levels and swiping movements. This system is powerful but expensive. On the iPhone 18, pressure sensors will perform all tasks exclusively. Modern pressure sensors are capable of reliably detecting taps, firm presses, and even swiping gestures. Similar approaches can already be found in devices such as the OPPO X8 Ultra and the vivo X200 Ultra.

Costs as a driving factor

The rationale for this simplification is primarily economic. According to Instant Digital, the current solution is "really very expensive" and also results in high repair costs. This puts Apple under considerable internal cost pressure. At the same time, the button's usefulness is currently limited, as not all planned AI-supported visual intelligence functions are yet available. Therefore, the full added value for users has not yet been fully realized.

Contradiction to previous rumors

The new information contradicts reports that the camera control button was to be removed entirely due to lack of adoption. Such a move would have been unusual, as Apple only introduced the button with the iPhone 16 series. Instant Digital's good track record with leaks suggests that simplification, rather than removal, is more likely.

iPhone 18: Camera control remains, but is solved more smartly

The iPhone 18 won't lose the camera control button, but will retain it in a technically optimized form. Apple is opting for a pure pressure sensor solution, which is cheaper to manufacture while still offering the same functionality as the previous dual system. For users, this means a familiar experience, while Apple reduces internal costs and lays the foundation for future AI features. (Image: Shutterstock / Wongsakorn 2468)