Apple Rumored to Remove Action Button in Future iPhone Pro Redesign

Apple is reportedly planning a major redesign for its iPhone Pro models slated for release in the second half of 2027, which may include the removal of the dedicated Action button. According to posts from a leaker known as Instant Digital on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, the change is expected to coincide with the milestone devices anticipated for the iPhone's 20th anniversary.

Rather than completely discarding the functionality associated with the Action button, Apple reportedly plans to integrate it with the existing Camera Control button. Under the rumored configuration, a standard press would continue to launch the Camera app, while a long-press gesture would trigger the custom tasks typically assigned to the Action button.

The Action button was first introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro in 2023 as a replacement for the traditional Ring/Silent switch. It allows users to execute various shortcuts, activate the flashlight, or toggle Focus and Silent modes. Meanwhile, the Camera Control button made its debut with the iPhone 16 lineup, though it received a mixed initial reception from reviewers regarding its ergonomics and complexity.

Industry analysts and observers note that merging the two physical controls makes functional sense, as the Action button already relies on a long-press activation. Eliminating a separate button could also streamline manufacturing processes, reduce device costs, and prevent users from accidentally confusing the Action button with neighboring volume controls. Precedents already exist within Apple's hardware ecosystem, such as the iPhone Duo, which operates without a separate Action button while retaining Camera Control.

While Apple has not officially commented on the leaks, the proposed design change points to an ongoing refinement of physical phone controls. Whether these adjustments will manifest in the upcoming 20th-anniversary lineup remains to be seen, as Apple's official product naming and final hardware specifications have yet to be confirmed.

In separate product news related to Apple accessories, Pantalones Organic Tequila—founded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey—recently unveiled a novelty phone case called the Phone Phlask. The vegan leather accessory, launched for the holiday season, features a pants-inspired buckle designed to hold a miniature bottle of tequila. The bundle is listed as compatible with select recent models, including the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro.