Will Samsung Follow iPhone 15’s Lead With a Customizable Action Button?
Apple recently announced the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max will feature a new “Action Button” that replaces the mute switch. This customizable button allows users to set up shortcuts to quickly launch apps, activate features like the flashlight, or run custom automations.
Given Samsung’s history of taking inspiration from Apple, many are wondering if Samsung will add something similar to its Galaxy S series.
What is the iPhone 15 Pro’s Action Button?
The Action Button replaces the mute switch that has been on iPhones since the very first model. By default, it still functions as a mute toggle, but can be customized to launch apps, shortcuts, or accessibility features.
For example, users could set a short press to open the camera app, a long press to turn on the flashlight, and a double press to trigger an automation. The button provides haptic feedback so you can identify different actions by feel.
Will Samsung Follow Suit?
Samsung has not officially commented on whether it plans to add a similar action button. However, the company does have a history of taking popular iPhone features and integrating them into Galaxy devices.
For example, Samsung added an alert slider after Apple included a mute switch on early iPhones. More recently, models like the Galaxy S22 incorporated the double tap on the back gesture.
Given the Action Button’s potential utility and Apple’s clout, many believe Samsung will jump on the bandwagon. An action button could allow Samsung to tout greater customization and accessibility compared to iPhones.
iPhone Action Button vs Samsung Bixby Button
You may be thinking, is the action button just like the Bixby button? The main difference between the action button and the Bixby button is that the action button is more customizable.
By default, the action button toggles between ring and vibrate modes, but users can customize it to launch any app or perform any action that they want. The Bixby button, on the other hand, is primarily used to launch the Bixby voice assistant.
Other differences between the two buttons include:
- Location: The action button is located on the side of the iPhone 15 Pro, while the Bixby button is located on the side of Samsung phones.
- Functionality: The action button can be used to launch apps, take screenshots, or activate other features. The Bixby button can be used to launch the Bixby voice assistant, but it can also be customized to perform other actions, such as launching apps or opening specific websites.
- Prominence: The action button is in a more prominent location on the iPhone 15 Pro than the Bixby key is on Samsung phones.
Overall, the action button is a more versatile and customizable button than the Bixby button.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between the two buttons:
| Feature | Action button | Bixby button |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Side of the iPhone 15 Pro | Side of Samsung phones |
| Functionality | Launch apps, take screenshots, or activate other features | Launch the Bixby voice assistant, but can also be customized to perform other actions |
| Prominence | More prominent | Less prominent |
| Customization | More customizable | Less customizable |
Which button is better depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want a button that is highly customizable and can be used to launch a variety of apps and features, then the action button is a good choice. If you are looking for a button that is primarily used to launch the Bixby voice assistant, then the Bixby button is a good choice.
What Would a Samsung Action Button Look Like?
If Samsung does plan an action button, it would likely build on work it has already done in this area. Some Galaxy phones have included extra customizable keys over the years.
For example, the Galaxy S Active series featured an “Active Key” that could launch apps or features. Samsung could take that concept further by allowing even more options and custom automations.
The most logical place to add the button would be on the power key, similar to the approach ASUS has taken with its Zenfone devices.
As the smartphone industry continues to evolve, the demand for more intuitive and user-friendly features grows. Apple’s Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro might just be the beginning of a shift towards more tactile interactions in the mobile world. While it remains to be seen if Samsung will follow suit, the potential benefits for users are undeniable. As the lines between software and hardware continue to blur, the future of smartphones looks promisingly interactive.