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Could the iPhone 7 feature a fingerprint-activated panic button?

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By Jennifer Faull, Deputy Editor

November 7, 2015 | 2 min read

Apple’s iPhone 7 feature a ‘panic button’, according to a newly granted patent.

The patent was filed in May 2014 but only just granted this week. It suggests Apple could hanress its fingerprint ID technology – used in the latest two versions of the iPhone to unlock the phone and verify payments – for everything from data security to alerting authorities you are in danger.

One example given is that if the panic mode is activated, beacon technology would signal another device nearby. It could also directly link to emergency services.

The patent also suggests that the ‘panic mode’ button might keep personal data secure. If used, it could disable some of the phone’s functions, block access to contact information, emails and photos, or activate the handset's camera or microphone.

"The mobile device may be unlocked using a designated finger that activates a panic mode of operation, wherein personal data stored on the mobile device is not accessible or viewable to the user," read the patent application.

"In other implementations, the user may register particular fingerprints to be associated with different modes of operation and activate the different modes based on the particular fingerprints."

It’s a step forward from the ‘Find My iPhone’ function it already offers to make it harder for thieves to sell on or use a stolen devices.

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