Apple first introduced the Action Button in the iPhone 15 Pro models, a customizable side key that replaces the traditional Ring/Silent switch. It’s located on the right side of the phone, above the volume buttons.
It may take a while to learn more about what you can do with this button. Once you get your way through it, you’ll realize your iPhone can do more than you can imagine, fully unlocking its potential. With the iPhone 16 series set to come out soon, rumors and leaked iPhone 16 Pro case suggest Apple will retain the Action Button. The tech giant may even introduce new features or functionalities to it, thanks to its more advanced Apple Intelligence.
In this article, we’ll explore ten new things you can do with the iPhone 16 Action Button, maximizing user experience.
How Does the Action Button Work?
The Action Button can do a lot of things for you in just a single press. You can create custom shortcuts using the Shortcuts app to automate tasks or use it to quickly access your most used apps or features.
To program the iPhone 16 Action Button:
Step 1: Go to Settings > Action Button.
Step 2: Choose the desired action or app.
Step 3: Press and hold the Action button to perform the assigned action.
Some of the most common shortcuts in the iPhone 15 Pro’s Action Button include the following:
- Silent mode: Toggles between silent and ring mode.
- Focus modes: Enters or exits a focus mode.
- Camera: Opens the camera app.
- Flashlight: Turns the flashlight on or off.
- Voice memos: Starts or stops recording a voice memo.
- Magnifier: Opens the magnifier app.
- Accessibility: Triggers an accessibility feature.
- Shortcuts: Runs a shortcut.
We will most likely still enjoy these actions with the iPhone 16 series. And we’re pretty convinced that this button is coming to all the models, not just the Pros. Experts say this is because the new iPhones will already have the latest Apple Intelligence, which supports this feature.
Below, we’ll look at the new possibilities of the iPhone 16 Action Button.
10 Interesting Shortcuts You Can Do with the iPhone 16 Action Button
In addition to the basic shortcuts, you can also create your own custom shortcuts using the Shortcuts app. This allows you to perform more complex tasks, such as sending messages, playing music, or controlling your smart home devices.
Given the integration of Apple Intelligence, the action button on the iPhone 16 could offer a plethora of new and innovative functionalities. Here are some more interesting stuff you can potentially create and use.
- Open my car’s trunk.
This shortcut can be used to open the trunk of your car using your iPhone, compatible with many modern vehicles with remote access features, just as how smart home control works.
- Switch wallpapers and home screens.
This shortcut can be used to switch between different wallpapers and home screens on your iPhone in just a swipe.
- Set reminders or write a quick note.
This shortcut can be used to quickly and easily set reminders or write notes on your iPhone for later reference.
- Replace Siri with chat GPT or Google Assistant.
This shortcut can be used to replace Siri with chat GPT or Google Assistant on your iPhone. Integrate these powerful AI assistants into your iPhone’s voice commands for more advanced interactions.
- Create shortcuts that are specific to certain focus modes.
Customize your iPhone’s behavior based on your current activity, such as opening your camera app when in “Photography” focus mode or launching a meditation app when in “Relax” mode.
- Program contextual actions.
The button could trigger actions based on the user’s current context, such as opening a relevant app or starting a specific task. For example, if you’re in a meeting, pressing the button could mute your phone and start a recording.
- Make personalized recommendations.
The button could suggest actions based on your usage patterns and preferences. For instance, if you frequently use a certain app or perform a specific task at a particular time, the button could initiate that action.
- Create or manage intelligent tasks.
The button could be used to create or manage tasks, set reminders, or prioritize to-do lists. Apple Intelligence could suggest relevant tasks based on your calendar, location, or other factors.
- Activate voice commands.
The button could activate voice commands for users with disabilities, allowing them to control their devices hands-free. Apple Intelligence could improve the accuracy and responsiveness of these commands.
- Use HomeKit Control.
The button could be used to control HomeKit-enabled devices, such as lights, thermostats, and security systems. Apple Intelligence could suggest relevant actions based on the user’s location, time of day, or other factors.
What Are the Future Possibilities of the Action Button
As AI technology continues to progress, we can expect even more innovative and personalized features to become available. From becoming a central hub for controlling your entire smart home ecosystem to promoting inclusivity by allowing users with disabilities to interact more easily with their iPhones, the possibilities are diverse.
Apple could further develop personalized features for the Action Button, allowing users to customize its functionality based on their individual needs and preferences.
Benefits of the Action Button
The Action Button offers several benefits to iPhone 16 users:
- Customization: It allows you to assign specific actions or apps to the button, tailoring it to your personal preferences and needs.
- Quick access: You can quickly launch your most used apps or features with a single press, saving time and effort.
- Accessibility: The Action Button provides easy access to various accessibility features, making it more convenient for users with disabilities.
- Versatility: It can be used for a wide range of tasks, from toggling ringer mode to automating complex actions.
- Efficiency: The Action Button can help you streamline your workflow and improve your productivity by automating tasks and reducing the number of steps required to accomplish certain actions.
When buying a phone case to protect your iPhone 16 device, check that it has precise cutouts that will not hinder or cover the button. Manufacturers like Thinborne ensure you can enjoy the full functionality of your phone with a compatible phone case.
Wrap Up
There are only a few days left, and we will most likely already see the next iPhone. Every Apple event builds anticipation of new experiences, and the Action Button is no exception. If things progress as we expect, we can see even more exciting and useful features to be integrated into this versatile button.
