According to a source who shared information on the MacRumors forums, the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are set to feature a new ultra-low energy microprocessor. This innovative chip will allow for the functionality of certain features, such as the new capacitive solid-state buttons, to remain active even when the device is turned off or its battery has drained completely.
One exciting aspect of the new iPhone models is the potential inclusion of a feature that was previously exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra. The mechanical mute switch will be replaced by a capacitive button, and insiders suggest that this new button may even be user-programmable, potentially serving as an “Action” button for the iPhone 15. This could be a game-changing addition to the iPhone’s interface, providing users with even more control and customization options.
There is a possibility that users will have the option to customize the function of the new volume rocker switch on the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro models. The latest CAD drawings have suggested that the current volume buttons and mute switch will be replaced by new capacitive buttons. The super-low energy mode of these buttons means that they can remain functional even when the device is switched off or the battery has run out.
The CAD drawings also indicate that the iPhone 15 Pro’s volume control will be a single rocker-style button instead of two separate buttons for up and down. Furthermore, Apple may be replacing the traditional moving mute switch with a solid-state button, as part of its move towards using more durable and efficient solid-state controls.
The credibility of the source sharing the rumor about the iPhone 15 Pro’s new ultra-low energy microprocessor is strengthened by his track record of accurately predicting details about previous iPhone releases. Specifically, the source accurately shared details about Dynamic Island before the launch of the iPhone 14 Pro.
According to this anonymous source, the new microprocessor will replace Apple’s current super-low energy mode that allows an iPhone to be located via Find My even when it’s powered off, or for up to 24 hours after its battery has drained completely. Additionally, the new microprocessor will enable Apple Pay Express Mode to be used for up to five hours after the battery has died. These exciting new features promise to make the iPhone 15 Pro an even more powerful and convenient device for users.
The leaker has also mentioned that the new mute button on the iPhone 15 Pro may also function as an “action” button. The use of the term “action” implies that the button could be programmable, similar to the Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra. This would give users the option to customize its functionality beyond just the mute function.
For instance, individuals who prefer to keep their iPhones muted at all times and rely on vibrations for alerts might find it useful to repurpose the button for another task. However, the leaker has also highlighted the limitation of the current Action button on the Apple Watch Ultra – it can only perform two actions (single press and double-press), regardless of the app being used. As such, many have expressed the desire for a contextual Action button that can be assigned different functions based on the app being used. It remains to be seen if the iPhone 15 Pro’s action button will offer this functionality.
According to the source, the new ultra-low energy microprocessor in the iPhone 15 Pro will not only power the solid-state buttons, but will also take over the existing Bluetooth LE/Ultra Wideband functions. This includes an “action” button that will replace the current mute switch. The microprocessor is designed to detect capacitive button presses, holds, and even its own version of 3D Touch with the new volume up/down button, action button, and power button. The tipster claims that the microprocessor will be able to perform these functions immediately, even when the phone is turned off or the battery is depleted.
The source also states that the new low-energy capacitive features are currently being tested with and without Taptic Engine feedback while the phone is powered off. However, it remains uncertain if this feature will make it to production. Nevertheless, it is being tested and could potentially be included in the final product.
The source claims to have insider information from an Apple employee and reports that there are two functional versions of the rumored unified volume button in testing.
Version 1: The volume goes up/down faster depending on the amount of force used when the button is pressed.
Version 2: The volume can be adjusted by swiping up and down on the button with a finger.
It is not clear which version will be adopted for the final release, but the source suggests that these features are enabled by software, so there is a possibility that they may be customizable by the user.
Source: Macrumors