# Investigating the iPhone 14 Pro Prototype: Insight into Apple’s Design Progression
As we find ourselves in the iPhone 16 era, it is captivating to contemplate the evolution of Apple’s smartphone innovations. A particularly fascinating artifact from this timeline is a scarce prototype of the iPhone 14 Pro, providing a glimpse into features that were ultimately discarded during the design phase. This prototype not only emphasizes Apple’s creative spirit but also illustrates the progression of the iPhone’s design ethos.
## The Inception of the Prototype
The iPhone 14 Pro prototype under discussion was developed in May 2021, ahead of the iPhone 13 release. During this period, Apple was finalizing the designs for the iPhone 13 and 13 Pro, making this prototype a vital initial version of what would later materialize as the iPhone 14 Pro. The inclusion of the Dynamic Island feature on the display affirms its association with the subsequent model, even with the numerous distinctions it shows when compared to the final device.
Within, this prototype is a fusion of elements from both the iPhone 13 Pro and the iPhone 14 Pro. While the logic board is akin to that of the iPhone 13 series, it conspicuously omits a SIM card slot, a feature that has become increasingly outdated due to advancements in eSIM technology. Furthermore, the battery design is reminiscent of that of the iPhone 16 Pro, reflecting Apple’s foresight even at this early stage.
## The Speculated Solid-State Volume Button
One of the most remarkable characteristics of this prototype is its distinctive volume control system. Rather than the conventional two-button setup for volume adjustments, this prototype showcases a single large button in conjunction with the traditional mute/ring switch. This design decision aligns with Apple’s previous ambitions to shift to solid-state buttons, aimed at eliminating mechanical parts in favor of haptic feedback technology.
Engraved with “RANGER-DROP,” the prototype seems to have been intended for durability assessment, implying that it was mainly utilized to test the new volume button’s performance. Reports suggested that Apple intended to enhance the user experience by augmenting the number of Taptic Engines in the device, thus boosting haptic feedback during interactions with the solid-state buttons.
Nevertheless, as development advanced, analysts noted that the intricacies of integrating solid-state buttons led Apple to abandon the concept. Later prototypes of the iPhone 15 Pro also incorporated this design, but eventually, the company reverted to the traditional mechanical buttons. The iPhone 16 series continues with this approach, retaining the familiar volume up and down buttons.
## The Outlook for Solid-State Technology in iPhones
At this stage, it remains ambiguous whether Apple will reconsider the idea of solid-state buttons in upcoming iPhone models. The recent rollout of the Camera Control feature, which still utilizes moving components, raises doubts about the practicality of entirely removing mechanical buttons from the iPhone’s design.
The investigation of solid-state technology mirrors Apple’s persistent dedication to innovation and enhancing user experience. While the company has chosen conventional buttons in recent models, the prototype stands as a testament to the potential advancements that could arise in smartphone design.
## Conclusion
The iPhone 14 Pro prototype provides a distinct perspective into Apple’s design journey, highlighting both the company’s inventive ambitions and the hurdles it encounters in introducing novel technologies to the market. As we continue to observe progress in smartphone technology, it will be intriguing to see if Apple revisits the solid-state button concept or ventures into other cutting-edge features in future iPhone editions.
What are your views on the possibility of solid-state buttons in upcoming iPhones? Would you embrace this technology, or do you favor the dependability of traditional mechanical buttons? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
