Overview

• According to Chinese leaker Instant Digital, Apple has restarted Project Bongo to develop solid-state buttons with haptic feedback for upcoming iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch models.
• The initiative aims to embed touch-sensitive buttons into device frames and use Taptic Engine vibrations to mimic the feel of mechanical clicks.
• Early prototypes suffered from “mistouches” and inconsistent responses, prompting Apple to refine its manufacturing processes for greater reliability.
• Eliminating physical button mechanisms could reduce wear points and enhance water and dust resistance across Apple’s device lineup.
• Apple is drawing on its experience with the iPhone 7’s solid-state home button and haptic systems in AirPods to advance the new buttonless designs.