The 20th anniversary iPhone will feature solid-state buttons with haptic feedback on the sides, if claims about the curved glass model prove true.
Apple is expected to release the 20th Anniversary Edition of the iPhone in 2027, and there have been many wild claims regarding the model. We now believe that this version will bring to its limits a technology that we often talk about.
In a post on Weibo, serial leaker Instant Digital wrote on Tuesday about the various features they believe will be included in the 20th anniversary iPhone. While most of the features are pretty normal speculation, it starts with a long discussion about buttons.
For Instant Digital, the anniversary model will include a static button on the edge. Apparently this is a feature that is still being tested in various situations.
This includes use with gloves, wet hands, in extreme temperatures, and through a holster.
Operation of the button is aided by an “ultra-low power chip” that will apparently detect button usage even if the iPhone is turned off.
This was already raised by the leaker in October 2025. At that time, Apple had apparently completed the “functional verification” of its solid-state button system.
Solid-state buttons work by sensing changes in pressure, such as a finger pressing on the edge of a device, instead of relying on a mechanical or capacitive system. The benefit is that manufacturers can create devices with smooth, seamless surfaces that aren’t interrupted by a physical button.
For Apple, this ties in with rumors that it is considering an all-glass iPhone for the 20th anniversary. Using solid-state buttons would be an advantage here, as it is a very aesthetically pleasing version.
Solid State buttons are a rumor that has been circulating for some time, but often fails to become a reality. In 2023, it was speculated that Apple would use solid-state buttons and a low-power controller chip for the iPhone 15 Pro, which turned out to be false.
Other (obvious) specs
The Weibo leaker added a number of other features to his post, which seem entirely plausible. Either because rumors have already spoken about it, or because it is guessable to the point of being practically obvious.
This listing includes an under-screen Face ID system using an under-screen infrared system and an under-screen front camera. Continuing the theme, they speculate that there will be “under-screen sound”, which would eliminate the earpiece hole at the top of the screen.
A dual-layer OLED display is also offered, bringing the iPhone in line with the iPad Pro’s display panels. However, leaks claim that Apple has decided to use a “quad micro-curve” OLED panel from Samsung for the iPhone 20.
For power, Instant Digital claims to use a battery with a capacity of around 6,000 mAh. Reverse wireless charging was also claimed by the account, reigniting similar unfulfilled rumors dating back to 2019.
Finally, the leak indicates that the front screen glass will feature “Ceramic Shield Ultra”. They admit the name is “made up”, but insist the screen won’t scratch when in a pocket with keys.
This is also a very easy prediction to make, given that Apple repeatedly updates the protective glass of its flagship. This is also something that the leaker has already considered a rumor for previous models.
Weibo leakers don’t have a great track record for accuracy, with many rumors regurgitating elsewhere to engage their followers, with little to no analysis or fact-checking. Instant Digital certainly falls into this category, and the message certainly seems like wishful thinking on their part based on previous rumors.