Apple has recently made a significant change to the user interface (UI) of its iOS 17 developer version. The tech giant has decided to move the “end call” button back to the center of the screen, reversing a previous change that had moved it to the lower right-hand corner. This UI adjustment has sparked curiosity among Apple enthusiasts and developers alike, as it signals a potential alteration in the way users interact with their iPhones.
An Unsettled UI Change
The relocation of the “end call” button was initially a consideration by Apple over the summer, as CNBC had reported. Previous beta versions of iOS 17 had already implemented this change, positioning the button at the bottom right-hand corner. However, in the most recent developer beta release, Apple has brought it back to the center of the screen, albeit vertically aligned with two other buttons.
It is important to note that Apple’s current UI adjustment is still in the testing phase and only available in the developer beta version of iOS 17. Developer and public beta release programs are primarily intended for software makers and early adopters who aim to test the new iPhone operating system and identify potential bugs before the official release in the fall, alongside new iPhone models.
The decision to reposition the “end call” button stems from Apple’s revamp of the call ID function in iOS 17. A new feature called “contact posters” allows users to select a photo that will appear when they call another iPhone user. Consequently, the chosen photo occupies a significant portion of the screen during phone calls, prompting Apple to relocate the buttons to the bottom for improved accessibility.
Apple has a history of making user interface adjustments in its software. In the summer of 2021, the tech giant contemplated relocating the URL bar in Safari to the bottom of the page, as it was deemed more ergonomic for users with larger screens. However, Apple ultimately rolled back some of these changes, giving users the option to move the URL bar back to the top before the official software release. Additionally, Apple has also made changes to the placement of push notifications, which now appear at the bottom of the iPhone’s screen in recent years.
The Future of iPhone UI
As Apple continues to refine its UI design, the adjustments to the “end call” button location and the call ID function in iOS 17 indicate the company’s commitment to enhancing user experience. Although this specific change is still under evaluation, it reflects Apple’s dedication to iterative improvements and its willingness to experiment with new UI paradigms.
Apple’s decision to move the “end call” button back to the center of the screen in the developer beta version of iOS 17 marks a notable UI adjustment. While the change is not yet finalized, it showcases Apple’s continuous efforts to refine its software and address user needs. As users eagerly anticipate the official release of iOS 17 and new iPhones, the ever-evolving iOS interface promises to enhance user experience and keep Apple at the forefront of technological innovation.
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