Apple rumors are a dime a dozen, but Boy Genius Report is pretty convinced that the new iPads and iPhones coming out later this year won't have a home button.

The one physical button on the front of the gadgets would be replaced by on-screen touch controls, using the multitouch capability in a new beta version of the iOS software, according to the report based on an "Apple source."

This may provide room for a bigger display and/or front-facing camera. It could also reduce Apple's manufacturing costs.

Removing the button would also be an opportunity for Apple to demonstrate its expertise in interface design. It would be a challenge to remove the devices' most obvious and consistent control and continue to improve their usability, but the pull of minimalism is strong for some.

From the BGR report:

In addition to the home button disappearing from the iPad, we're told that this change will make its way over to the iPhone as well. Our source said Apple employees are already testing iPads and iPhones with no home buttons on the Apple campus, and it's possible we will see this new change materialize with the next-generation iPad and iPhone devices set to launch this year.