Apple patented a unique panic mode feature for the possible iPhone 7. (Photo : Reuters)
Apple has patented a panic mode feature, which was revealed on Nov. 8, Sunday, and has fueled speculations that the iPhone 7 would have the security function.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office disclosed that Apple had filed a patent for a panic mode intended to protect the user's data and allow the iPhone to record audio and capture photos with a single, specific touch, according to Business Insider.
When the iPhone is in panic mode, the device could reportedly reset everything or limit the usability of the handset. The feature would largely benefit people in distressful situations, such as when an individual is hurt or when an iPhone gets stolen.
The patent would reportedly allow iPhone owners to enter panic mode and immediately activate the microphone, allowing users to provide important details about any event. To warn other people, an incredibly loud alarm could continue playing until the iPhone user is safe.
If a person steals an iPhone, the user could quickly hold down the device with the "panic finger" and allow the phone to take images and videos of the immediate environment. Moreover, the media files could be readily sent to a specific iCloud account to be used as evidence, according to Tech Times.
However, while the patent is confirmed, the panic mode feature will not necessarily be available in the next iPhone. Apple is known to file for software and hardware patents to create publicity and hinder other companies from copying the tech giant's innovations.
Aside from the panic mode, Apple seems to be experimenting with the unique mark of each finger to allocate them to specific iPhone tasks. For example, an index finger could be dedicated to placing an iPhone call.
The rumored applicability of the patent indicates that Apple is further exploring the potential of biometrics, as the company was the first company to utilize the authentication technology in smartphones.
