Tactile controls are making a comeback! Many companies are adding physical buttons and knobs back to their devices, moving away from touchscreens that have been popular for years.
Tactile controls offer several key benefits that enhance user experience. They are easier to use without needing to look at the device, allowing for quick adjustments without navigating through menus.
Physical buttons provide clear feedback when pressed, making operations more intuitive. In vehicles, tactile controls enhance safety by reducing distractions while driving. They are also more reliable in poor conditions, such as when fingers are wet.
Additionally, tactile controls allow for precise adjustments, evoke a sense of nostalgia, and tend to be more durable than touchscreens. They can improve accessibility for users with disabilities and can be customized to fit individual preferences, making them a practical choice for many devices.
Apple’s Shift:
Apple recently introduced two new buttons on the iPhone 16. This is surprising because Apple was one of the first companies to popularize touchscreens with the original iPhone in 2007.
The return to physical controls shows that Apple is listening to customer complaints about how frustrating touchscreens can be.
Changes in Cars:
In the automotive world, many manufacturers are also reintroducing buttons and dials in response to negative feedback. Companies like Kia, BMW, and Volkswagen are adding these controls back into their cars, moving away from the all-touchscreen dashboards that were once trendy.
This change is partly driven by safety concerns, as studies show that using touchscreens while driving can take a long time and distract drivers. Starting in January 2026, the European safety rating program will require physical controls for certain features in cars to achieve a top safety rating.
Volkswagen
Beyond Phones and Cars:
This trend isn’t just happening with phones and cars. Apple also brought back physical keys on the MacBook Pro in 2021. Additionally, e-book readers like Kobo, Nook, and Boox still include buttons for turning pages, showing that tactile controls are valued in different types of devices.
Overall, it seems that companies are recognizing the benefits of tactile controls, making products safer and easier to use.