Apple iPhone 7 continues to remain at the center of rumours and speculations on the Web. A newly-released patent application filed by Apple suggests the next generation iPhone might sport a panic button enabled by the fingerprint of the user on the Touch ID sensor.

The patent, which was filed in May 2014, was first spotted by The Telegraph. This week, the Apple patent and the new security feature was approved by the US Patent and Trademark Office.

The patent reveals the next iPhone 7’s Touch ID fingerprint sensor can be utilised to enable a “panic mode.” Once the new mode is launched, the phone’s data becomes inaccessible.

The phone will still unlock but certain sets of functions like access to the contact list, emails, photos, videos and documents and activating the camera will be disabled.

According to the U.S. patent, the iPhone will start “transmitting an alert using a cellular network to an emergency service provider”, when it senses danger. Considering the resale value of the iPhone and the personal data stored in it, Apple is believed to have incorporated the new feature to secure the iPhone against thieves .

The feature will also enable audio and video recording of the iPhone or emit beacon signals transmitted to any nearby device or emergency service providers.

With the iPhone 5s, Apple introduced a fingerprint sensor primarily to unlock the handset. In 2010, Apple implemented a new security feature called Find My iPhone to help users track their iPhones, iPads and Macs using the iCloud. The Activation Lock prevents outsiders from using the device if it’s lost or stolen.

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