Reports: Next iPhone might read your fingerprints

As we store more and more of
our personal lives on smartphones,
mobile security is becoming increasingly
crucial. A password offers some
protection, but it may not deter a serious
hacker.
For users of Apple devices, more help
might be on the way.
According to several reports, the next
version of Apple's mobile operating
system suggests future iPhones will have
biometric scanners that read fingerprints.
A user could register his or her prints
with the device, then place a thumb on
the home button to unlock the phone.
Fingerprint verification could also add an
extra layer of security when making
mobile payments, for example.
A biometric sensor has been a rumored
feature on the next iPhone for months.
But the rumors got a boost when a beta
version of iOS 7 was released Monday
night to Apple developers. At least one
developer found a file called
"BiometricKitUI" containing numerous
references to "fingerprint," according to
reports by 9to5Mac , Extreme Tech and
other blogs.
"You can then unlock your phone by
putting your thumb on the home button.
No longer will friends and family be able
to pick up and peruse your phone -- no
longer will you have to key in your
passcode every time you want to do
something," wrote Sebastian Anthony for
Extreme Tech.
Of course, many blogs trade in feverish
rumors about Apple products that later
prove unfounded, and there's no proof
that such a feature will show up on the
next iPhone, expected to be launched this
fall.
Observers expect the as-yet-unnamed
phone (iPhone 5S?) to have a faster
processor, better battery life and an
improved camera, possibly with a slow-
motion video function.
Apple also has been experimenting with
larger screens for the iPhone and iPad.