Most reports in the past have suggested that the 15 Pro models will get some key design changes, including the inclusion of solid-state buttons for the volume rocker and the mute switch. Now, a new report by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo negates these leaks. The analyst claims that Apple will continue to offer physical buttons in its upcoming iPhone models.
New iPhone 15 Pro Leak Contradicts Previous Rumours
The iPhone 15 Pro models were rumoured to feature new Taptic Engines for the power and volume buttons. However, the latest development suggests otherwise. Apple might stick to offering physical buttons for the iPhone 15 series later this year. Analyst Kuo stated that the 15 Pro models, which were tipped to feature solid-state buttons, will continue to feature the traditional mechanical buttons.
The analyst, back in October 2022, claimed that the upcoming Pro iPhones could go buttonless and launch with a solid-state design for the volume and power buttons. Apple was said to add more Taptic Engines on the left and right sides to provide Force Touch-like feedback found in the MacBook trackpads, iPhone 7 series, iPhone 8 series and the iPhone SE models.
However, in its latest Medium post, the analyst revealed that Apple is postponing its plans of introducing solid-state buttons this year due to some unresolved technical issues before going into mass production. “My latest survey indicates that due to unresolved technical issues before mass production, both high-end iPhone 15 Pro models (Pro & Pro Max) will abandon the closely-watched solid-state button design and revert to the traditional physical button design,” Kuo said.
The analyst further added that there is still time for Apple to resolve these issues as the devices are still in the EVT development stage. If Apple continues to go ahead with physical buttons, the removal of solid-state buttons should have a limited impact on the mass production schedule and shipments for Pro models, according to Kuo.
Also Read: iPhone 15 Pro Mute Toggle Switch to be Changed to Action Button with Multiple Shortcuts: Reports
Design renders of the 15 Pro leaked recently showed the new solid-state volume rocker and mute switch design on the left edge. We can expect new renders to be available with an updated design soon.
The leaked renders also revealed that the 15 Pro models will get a new titanium case with rounder edges. The bottom edge houses a USB Type-C port. On the front, the bezels around the display are said to be as thin as 1.55mm. The front and rear panels of the 15 Pro also have a subtle curvature on the edges.
On the back, the 15 Pro has a bigger module for the triple-camera setup, the LED flash and the LiDAR sensor. The Pro models are said to launch in a new Deep Red colour alongside the traditional Silver, Black and Gold colour options.
