For the iPhone that would celebrate its 20th anniversary, Apple continues to test a solid-state haptic button system that will replace traditional mechanical buttons and improve the uninterrupted appearance of the device’s screen, claims Chinese leaker “Instant Digital.”
According to the Weibo-based leaker, the buttons have already passed tests for use with gloves or wet hands, at extreme temperatures, and when the phone is fitted with a case.
The leaker also claims that the 20th anniversary iPhone will be equipped with an ultra-low power microprocessor allowing solid-state buttons to remain functional even when the handset is turned off or the battery is exhausted.
This isn’t the first time Instant Digital has announced that solid-state buttons will feature on the device. The leaker made the same claim in October 2025, saying Apple’s solution would include haptic feedback for the side button, volume buttons, action button, and camera control button.
Apple is reportedly working on a display that curves around all four edges of the device for a borderless visual experience – and solid-state haptic buttons could contribute to Apple’s apparent desire to create a device that looks like a slab of glass without cutouts or bezels.
That said, Apple’s adoption of solid-state buttons has been repeatedly rumored for an iPhone, but with little to show for it. In 2022, several reports suggested that Apple intended to bring solid-state buttons to the iPhone 15 Pro in 2023 as part of “Project Bongo”. However, the project was reportedly canceled late. Rumor has it that they will next arrive on the iPhone 16 Pro, before being shelved indefinitely.
In the same Weibo post, the leaker went on to list other features that have been repeatedly rumored for the 2027 device, such as a dual-layer OLED panel, under-screen Face ID, and an under-screen front camera. They also mentioned a 6,000mAh battery, under-display audio (eliminating the earpiece slot), reverse wireless charging, and a next-generation ceramic shield – although it’s unclear whether these latter items are more of a list of desired features rather than being based on new supply chain information.
Instant Digital has a generally good track record when it comes to Apple rumors and has provided accurate information in advance, such as the imminent launch of the 2023 yellow iPhone 14, as well as the frosted rear glass of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.
The 20th anniversary iPhone will likely be released in fall 2027.