Apple to simplify — not remove — iPhone 18 Camera Control button

Recent rumors suggested Apple might remove the Camera Control button that debuted on the iPhone 16. However, more credible reports indicate Apple is likely redesigning and simplifying the button for the iPhone 18 rather than eliminating it entirely.

Key points:

• Original claim: an unverified source said Apple would drop the Camera Control button to cut costs.
• More reliable reports (Weibo leaker and follow-ups) suggest Apple will remove the capacitive sensor portion of the dual-sensor design and rely on a pressure-sensitive module for all functions.
• Reasoning: the current sapphire crystal + capacitive/pressure combo is costly and leads to expensive repairs; simplifying the design would reduce cost and repair complexity.
• User reports have noted occasional issues with the Camera Control button’s soft-press detection and accidental activations on iPhone 16 units, which may have influenced the redesign decision.

Sources and further reading:

• PhoneArena — iPhone 18’s Camera Control may not be going away
• MacRumors — Apple to simplify iPhone 18 Camera Control button, not remove it

Note: The rumor about complete removal originated from a less-established source; current evidence leans toward modification rather than removal. No related accessories or product listings (e.g., on Amazon) are currently relevant, as the Camera Control is a built-in hardware feature.

Last updated: August 22, 2025.