The new action button can be set up to open any app or shortcut, thereby transforming it into a remote control or launcher for instant access to whatever you need
The new iPhone 15 Pro series includes the standard set of new features aimed to entice users to upgrade. They're slimmer and thinner than the crop from last year. The new cameras are of professional quality, and the changeover to USB-C charging will simplify your life.
However, one new element sticks out: the Action Button.
Apple has repurposed the physical mute button on the side of its high-end models into a more configurable tool. This tool allows users to perform a variety of tasks ranging from recording a voice note to taking a picture to turning on the flashlight. The button can also be customized to start any app or shortcut, thereby transforming it into a remote control or launching pad for instant access to whatever you want. The Action Button will undoubtedly become a valuable resource for anyone who returns to an app multiple times throughout the day.
However, it has the potential to become an even more powerful tool. It could program it to play user favorite music, switch on the user living room's smart lighting, or open the garage door. Users could even make it a special button for calling someone. It expands on iOS's current supply of ready-made or custom shortcuts, and Apple encourages developers to create additional unique shortcuts that other users can activate via the Action Button.
The modification is slight, but it is one of the few visible design changes to the iPhone this year. The Action Button is almost the same size as the previous button, and users can still hold it down to toggle between muting and activating the ringer. Commands are accompanied with visual feedback from the Dynamic Island bar, which is located at the top of the screen and houses warnings and notifications.
How does it work?
Users of the iPhone 15 Pro can configure the Action Button by going to the button's area in Settings, scrolling through, and selecting from a variety of functions, such as flashlight or camera. Users can sift through their list of programs or previously established commands by selecting the shortcuts option.
Once adjusted, there is a little learning curve after years of getting into the habit of turning the volume on and off using the physical button. As a result, it may take some time for some iPhone fans to alter their ways of using the gadget.
Although it's unknown whether the Action Button will be added to other devices in the future, Apple's push to build a unified ecosystem for its customers continues.