A fascinating iPhone prototype has just been discovered at an electronics recycling center, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at development at Apple. Called “Vesica Piscis”, this experimental device is immediately distinguished by the absence of the famous apple logo, replaced by a mysterious mathematical symbol formed by two intersecting circles – a pattern already seen on old AirTag prototypes.
The secrets of a revolutionary prototype
This mysterious iPhone ingeniously combines elements of the iPhone 13 Pro and 14 Pro, creating a real technological puzzle. Its most notable feature lies in its single elongated volume button, replacing the two traditional keys. The interior of the device reveals a unique architecture, with a hybrid motherboard and sometimes artificial components, particularly at the level of the photo module replaced by transparent plastic.
Manufactured in May 2021, this prototype was clearly intended for testing haptic technology. When connected to a Mac, the device identifies itself under the codename “Bender”, a surprising reference to the Futurama series. The SIM port also has some peculiarities, with a modified design and secured by screws, testifying to its experimental nature.
From Project Bongo to the iPhone 16: the evolution of an innovation
This prototype was part of “Project Bongo”, an ambitious initiative aimed at revolutionizing the iPhone user interface. While the technology was initially abandoned for the iPhone 15 Pro due to technical challenges, it eventually found its way into the iPhone 16, demonstrating Apple’s persistence in developing new user interfaces.
The internal layout is a mix of an iPhone 13 Pro and an iPhone 14 Pro. The iPhone battery is also covered in a copper-looking metal, appearing similar to the new style of iPhone 16 Pro batteries. pic.twitter.com/V1TzpW8DUx
— Apple Demo (@AppleDemoYT) November 9, 2024
The haptic button system, developed in collaboration with Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, is based on an electromagnetic motor called the “Bongo Haptic Engine”, operating on the same principle as the current Taptic Engine. This development recalls the successful introduction of the haptic Home button on the iPhone 7, which marked a turning point in the history of tactile interactions on smartphones.
The discovery of this prototype demonstrates Apple’s rigorous methodology for innovation. The company does not hesitate to explore bold avenues, even if the path to commercialization may take several years. A question remains: how could this prototype be recovered so easily in a public recycling plant? As with the MacBook Pro M4 which appeared in Russia a month before its release, Apple has an increasing tendency to lose products in the wild. Either way, this iPhone prototype with haptic buttons gives us a glimpse of what the brand plans to release in the years to come.
