Apple’s long-rumored solid-state buttons may finally debut on the 20th anniversary iPhone. According to a report from Chinese tipster Instant Digital, Cupertino is currently testing solid-state buttons for a special anniversary edition iPhone expected to launch next year. This comes after similar rumors for the iPhone 15 Pro lineup failed to materialize.
Solid-State Buttons: Testing Complete
The report claims solid-state buttons have passed rigorous testing scenarios, including users wearing gloves, pressing with wet fingers, and extreme temperature conditions. The new buttons are reportedly powered by a dedicated low-power chip that registers presses and provides haptic feedback even when the phone is completely powered off.
Quad-Curved Display and Tandem OLED
The anniversary edition is expected to feature a quad-curved display that blends seamlessly into the device’s edges. Under the screen, Apple will allegedly implement under-display Face ID and front-facing camera capabilities within a dual-layer OLED display — aka tandem OLED, the same technology that debuted in the 2024 iPad Pro series.
The display and edges are said to feature next-generation Ceramic Shield protection for improved scratch resistance.
No Physical Earpiece — Under-Display Sound Instead
In a notable departure from every previous iPhone, the anniversary model will allegedly lack a physical earpiece speaker. Instead, it will use “under-display sound” technology — similar to the under-display ear speakers seen in the Google Pixel 5 and LG G8.
Massive 6,000mAh Battery with Reverse Wireless Charging
Beyond the display and button innovations, the next-gen iPhone is rumored to pack a 6,000mAh battery with reverse wireless charging capabilities — a significant upgrade from current models.
Context: A History of Delayed InnovationApple has been rumored to work on solid-state buttons for years. The iPhone 15 Pro was widely expected to introduce them, but technical challenges — particularly around haptic consistency and reliability — reportedly forced Apple to stick with mechanical buttons. If the 20th anniversary iPhone delivers on these rumors, it would represent one of the most significant hardware redesigns in iPhone history.
Source: GSMArena (via Instant Digital, in Chinese)
