Earlier we learned that iOS 4.3 beta 1 brought several new 4 and 5-finger multitouch actions to the iPad, and now there may an explanation as to why these new actions showed up randomly.  According to a source speaking with BGR, Apple is planning to remove the Home button from the face of the iPad.  Not only that, but the tipster also claims that the change will even come to the iPhone, as well.  Some Apple employees are supposedly already testing buttonless iPhones and iPads, and the change may occur as soon as this year.  Additionally, it's said that iPhoto and perhaps other iLife apps will be coming to the iPad.

Considering that the iPhones and iPad have always had only one physical button, and have never come with a physical keyboard of any kind, it's not surprising that Apple would want to eliminate the single button that is there.  Once it's gone, there are some other changes that Apple could make to bring new features to the iPhone/iPad, too.  Then again, I think the "one button that always takes you Home" approach is part of the whole simplicity thing that iOS and Apple strive for.  If they take that away and make users perform a 4 or 5-finger gesture to return home instead, well, that's just not as simple.  Plus, in a previous leak that had an iPad 2 case, there was clearly space on the front of it for a Home button.  What do you all make of this rumor?  Would it be a good idea for Apple to remove the Home button?

Via BGR