Five iPhone Features That Could Disappear Forever with Apple’s Upcoming Model

Apple has recently launched the iPhone 16e, which may signal the end for five well-known features that many users have grown accustomed to in previous models. The iPhone 16e is a budget-friendly option that incorporates AI technology, providing insights into what Apple might offer in the future.

The most noticeable change is the absence of the Home button. Apple first eliminated the Home button from its flagship series with the introduction of the iPhone X back in 2017, allowing for a more expansive screen. Initially, the Home button remained on the iPhone SE series, but the iPhone 16e’s design indicates that the latest iPhone SE from 2022 will likely be the last to feature this button.

Along with the Home button, another feature that has been removed is Touch ID. Originally introduced with the iPhone 5S in 2013, Touch ID allowed users to unlock their devices using their fingerprints. However, with the iPhone X, Apple replaced Touch ID with Face ID technology, which scans your face for unlocking. Since the new 16e model utilizes Face ID, it appears that Touch ID’s presence in future iPhones is highly unlikely, though it may still be found in some other Apple devices, like MacBooks.

The iPhone 16e also marks the retirement of the traditional Mute Switch, a feature that dates back to the original iPhone in 2007. The mute function is now replaced by the Action Button, first introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro models. This customizable button allows users to assign it various functions, though it defaults to toggling between ring and silent modes. With the Action Button now standard in the iPhone 16 range, the return of the Mute Switch seems unlikely.

Another feature that appears to be fading away is the Lightning port. Apple made the switch to the more universal USB-C charging port starting with the iPhone 15. USB-C ports are now widespread across numerous devices, not just Apple products, making them a common standard in the tech industry. Given this trend, it seems Apple has no plans to revert to the Lightning port for future iPhones.

Finally, the iPhone 16e introduces Apple’s first-ever modem, known as the C1. Previously, Apple relied on Qualcomm for its modem technology. The C1 modem promises enhanced energy efficiency and supports 5G connectivity, helping improve battery life. This move towards in-house modem development indicates that Apple is fully committed to this technology for its future devices.

Overall, the introduction of the iPhone 16e highlights significant changes in Apple’s product design and technology. With the removal of long-standing features like the Home button, Touch ID, and the Mute Switch, along with the introduction of USB-C ports and proprietary modems, users can expect an evolving landscape in future iPhone models.