Apple's 20th Anniversary iPhone: Solid-State Buttons and Innovative Features Await

A few years ago, rumors circulated that Apple was working on solid-state buttons for its iPhone 15 Pro series. Although that did not materialize, a recent report from the Chinese source Instant Digital indicates that Apple is currently testing these innovative buttons for the upcoming 20th anniversary iPhone.

Set to launch next year, this special anniversary edition iPhone will reportedly feature a quad-curved screen seamlessly merging with the device's sides. The latest report suggests that Apple has conducted extensive testing of the solid-state buttons to complement the all-glass aesthetic of the device.

According to the same report, the solid-state buttons have successfully passed rigorous testing scenarios, including use cases with users wearing gloves, pressing buttons with wet hands, and during extreme temperature conditions. The new buttons are said to be powered by a dedicated low-power chip that registers presses and provides haptic feedback, even when the phone is completely powered off.

In addition to solid-state buttons, the 20th anniversary iPhone is expected to feature under-display Face ID and selfie camera capabilities via a dual-layer OLED display, also known as tandem OLED. The device's display and sides will utilize next-generation Ceramic Shield protection, which promises improved scratch resistance.

Another noteworthy feature is the absence of a traditional physical earpiece, as the device will utilize “under-display sound.” This technology may function similarly to the under-display speakers found in the Pixel 5 and LG G8, though details remain unconfirmed.

Beyond the display and solid-state buttons, the next-generation iPhone is anticipated to come equipped with a 6,000mAh battery supporting reverse wireless charging capabilities.

Source (in Chinese)