iPhone 20 tipped to feature solid-state haptic buttons across all controls
The rumor mill has been consistently leaking details about the iPhone 18 series that’s arriving in 2026 and even the 20th anniversary iPhone 20 series, which is expected in 2027. A recent leak from tipster Setsuna Digital (via Weibo) offers an early glimpse at what could be a major shift in how Apple’s devices are controlled.
According to the post, Apple is preparing to move beyond the familiar click-mechanical buttons and into a new era of solid-state controls with haptic feedback, not just for iPhones, but also for its other devices.
Solid-state buttons with ultrasonic feedback

According to the source, by the time the iPhone 20 debuts in 2027, Apple intends to mass-produce solid-state buttons for the power key, volume controls, operational buttons and camera control buttons. Rather than moving parts, these buttons would rely on pressure sensing and “local vibration” feedback to give a button-like feel.
Prior to that, the leak says the camera control button will be simplified on the 2026-era “iPhone 18”, dropping its capacitive layer and retaining only a pressure-sensing mechanism. Following that, Apple plans to adopt piezoelectric ceramic components to provide the haptic sensation in later models.
The broader initiative is expected to replace mechanical keys across Apple’s entire ecosystem, including future iPad and Apple Watch models. Internally linked to the long-rumoured “Project Bongo”, the effort reportedly focuses on eliminating accidental inputs while ensuring a consistent and reliable tactile experience for users at scale.
As these kinds of interface changes tend to require significant validation, the leak suggests this transition is still in the research and refinement phase. The promise is durability (fewer moving parts to break) and new gesture possibilities (firm press, long hold, swipe) but the challenge is getting the tactile feedback and responsiveness right before rollout. Until then, mechanical buttons will likely remain in place while Apple works behind the scenes.
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The post iPhone 20 tipped to feature solid-state haptic buttons across all controls appeared first on Gizmochina.