⁠iPhone 17 Pro rumoured to merge Action and Volume buttons for a sleeker design

It has been just a few days since Apple released its latest smartphone series, the iPhone 16 series. The new series introduced a new Camera Control Button as one of the major design boosts. The button provides quick access to both the camera and its settings. In the future, it will also enable the iPhone’s built-in AI to utilise the new Visual Intelligence feature by using the camera for enhanced capabilities. But Apple is not stopping. Based on the latest rumour, the company is eyeing upgrading the next-in-line iPhone 17 Pro model with a new button that merges the functions of both Action button and volume control.
The tipster, @MajinBuOfficial, posted on X, saying the iPhone 17 Pro could feature a single button, replacing the Action button and volume controls.
The Action button was introduced on iPhone 15 Pro models and continued to feature on the iPhone 16 series as well. The Action Button on the iPhone replaces the traditional mute switch and offers customisable shortcuts for various tasks. This button allows for quick, one-touch access to frequently used functions, enhancing the user experience by streamlining tasks. With its flexibility, the Action Button serves as a personalised tool, catering to individual preferences and needs.
This design choice is also practical, especially if Apple extends the Action Button across all four iPhone 17 models. The iPhone 17 Air, expected to be much thinner, will need enhanced durability, particularly to prevent bending. Reducing the number of button cutouts in the slim metal frame will make the device structurally stronger, minimising weak points and improving its resistance to accidental damage. By incorporating fewer physical buttons, Apple can ensure the thinner models maintain the durability standards of the current iPhones.
Discarding the previous display specs, the rumour has it that the iPhone 17 models will feature ProMotion technology, which basically means 120Hz display. This feature was previously reserved for the Pro models and is now rumoured to make it to the standard models as well to provide a smoother scrolling and video playback experience.
Next year, Apple is also expected introduce a new model, which will be called the “iPhone 17 Air.” It will reportedly be slimmer and also have a 120Hz display. The device is tipped to be a replacement for the Plus series. So, we might not see the iPhone 17 Plus model next year. The iPhone 16 Plus could be the last Plus model from Apple, unless the company decides to change its decision based on the current version’s sale demand.