Apple's Solid-State Button Project 'Bongo' Still on Hold, Says Leaker

Apple is still working behind the scenes on a long-rumored feature—solid-state haptic buttons—for future iPhones. According to a recent post from leaker Instant Digital on Weibo, the project, code-named Bongo, hasn’t been scrapped but remains paused due to technical hurdles.

These touch-sensitive buttons were originally rumored to debut with the iPhone 15, but Apple held back, and now we have a better idea why.

Not a Cost Issue—It's All About Performance

According to the leaker, the delay has nothing to do with production costs. Instead, Apple is reportedly struggling with two key issues:

• Preventing accidental touches on the buttons

• Ensuring perfectly consistent responsiveness across all units

These may sound like small details, but they’re important when you consider how crucial volume and power buttons are to daily phone use. Apple wants the experience to mimic the feel of physical buttons, but with haptic feedback that’s precise and reliable over time.

Uniform Experience Is a Top Priority

In typical Apple fashion, the goal isn’t just to get the tech working—it’s to make sure it works perfectly for everyone, across every phone. That means ensuring long-term durability and a uniform button feel no matter which unit you pick up. Until those conditions are met, Instant Digital says the project will remain on hold.

No Solid-State Buttons on iPhone 17?

If you're hoping to see this new button technology on the upcoming iPhone 17, the post suggests that’s unlikely. Apple appears to be taking its time with the Bongo project, making sure it’s fully refined before introducing it into the mass market.

Still, the idea of solid-state buttons remains very much alive. It’s not a matter of if—but when.

As always, we’ll be keeping an eye on future leaks and updates. Once Apple solves the current challenges, Bongo could bring a subtle but meaningful shift in how we interact with our iPhones.