Apple will include a new low-power microprocessor to power the iPhone 15 Pro’s capacitive buttons. This will enable the solid-state buttons to function even when the phone is switched off or has a dead battery.
The new microprocessor will also take over other low-power tasks like Apple Pay Express Card and Find My functionality. Apple’s A-series chip currently handles these tasks in super low power mode.
iPhone 15 Pro’s capacitive volume buttons could support 3D Touch-like behavior
Rumors suggest Apple could switch to a single solid-state volume button on the iPhone 15 Pro series. A source claims the button will have 3D Touch-like functionality and can detect the amount of force applied.
Apple will include a microprocessor on the new iPhones to power the capacitive keys. It will sense when the buttons are pressed and pressure applied. Depending on the force applied, the volume level will go up/down faster. The company is also testing allowing volume control by letting users slide their fingers up/down on the button.
The source claims it is unclear which functionality the iPhone maker will eventually go with.
Apple plans to utilize the Taptic engine to provide feedback when using the capacitive buttons. Currently, they are testing whether to provide this feedback or not when the phone is switched off.
Besides powering the capacitive volume button, the microprocessor will help with the functioning of the “action” button. Rumors indicate the latter will replace the mute switch on the new iPhones. Given the Apple Watch Ultra’s Action button is customizable, the iPhone 15 Pro’s button should be no different.
New microprocessor could power a lot more features
Apple plans to use the low-power microprocessor for other tasks as well. This includes Apple Pay Express Card functionality, which allows you to access some of your cards, keys and passes in Apple Wallet for up to five hours after the phone’s battery is dead. It will also handle Find My and Bluetooth/Ultra Wideband tasks when the iPhone is out of battery power.
Rumors suggest that only the iPhone 15 Pro will exclusively use the capacitive buttons. Apple will stick to the traditional physical volume and power keys on the regular iPhone 15 lineup.
The source of this leak accurately revealed information about the iPhone 14 Pro’s Dynamic Island before its release in 2022. So, there’s little reason to doubt the details shared about the iPhone 15 Pro.
