Future iPhones could have a touchscreen panel on the side

While the iPhone isn’t exactly known for customizability, it is getting better. You’ve now got widgets and lock screen options baked into iOS. Not to mention that the latest iPhone 15 series comes with the customisable Action Button. But if you’re after another step, you might be in luck. A recent patent filed by Apple shows an upcoming iPhone with a touchscreen on the side, so you can add extra shortcuts a finger press away.

• Read more: iPhone Action Button: what it is and how you can customize it on the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max

The patent suggests this nifty side screens could serve as a new home for quick functions like calendars, music controls, or even your text messages. Imagine swiping your iPhone’s side to crank up the volume or flip through your latest texts. One of the more eyebrow-raising features is the idea of ditching the physical volume buttons in favour of their digital counterparts displayed right on the side of your phone. Awaiting the rumoured Camera button on the iPhone 16? This patent hints at this display taking its place.

The patent illustrations tease us with unique animations for music lovers, displaying song titles on the side of your iPhone. Fancy knowing what track’s up next without interrupting your current scroll fest? Apple’s got you covered. Plus, these digital buttons could be fully customisable, potentially allowing you to launch apps with a tap or swipe. It’s unclear how Apple plans to avoid accidental swipes in your pocket, but this would likely be software based.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This is, at the end of the day, just a patent. It might not ever see the light of day. But with plenty of rumours swirling around buttons on the side of future iPhones, the next one could opt for this display instead. Maybe those janky iPhone renders from Facebook in 2016 were right, after all.

• Related: Holding out for the iPhone SE 4? You might want to think again

Connor Jewiss

About

Connor is a writer for Stuff, working across the magazine and the Stuff.tv website. He has been writing for around seven years now, with writing across the web and in print too. Connor has experience on most major platforms, though does hold a place in his heart for macOS, iOS/iPadOS, electric vehicles, and smartphone tech. Just like everyone else around here, he’s a fan of gadgets of all sorts! Aside from writing, Connor is involved in the startup scene. This exciting involvement puts him at the front of new and exciting tech, always on the lookout for innovating products.

Areas of expertise

Mobile, macOS, EVs, smart home