The release date of Apple's next handset, deemed to be the iPhone 7, has allegedly been pushed back to 2016 due to the launch of the iCar. 

According to Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar with Apple's new endeavor, the company had a mass hiring to work on a secret project dubbed as "Titan," which is presumed to be the electric vehicle of the company. One of the people Apple reportedly hired is Ford's former concept designer Marc Newson. 

Reports say that the electric car is an Apple product that will look like a minivan. This, of course, won't be the first electric car in the market as other automobile manufacturers have already put out their bets. However, one of the edges and advantages of the car is its unique and special Apple features. 

This is where iPhone 7 comes in. Rumors claim that the iCar will work using the upcoming iPhone, perhaps something like driving a car using the device (or at least using the device to assist in driving). Apple's new iPhone is said to sport a CarPlay feature that will enable apps like Maps and Music to be operated via Siri. It could also work as the key for the car. A new kit, similar to HealthKit, will reportedly be included in the iOS to work as a speedometer and GPS. 

The iPhone 7 is rumored to pack high end specs and features such as sapphire screen display, A9 processor, iOS 9, better camera, improved battery, and fingerprint sensor. Apple has not confirmed the rumored features and more information are expected to be revealed at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June.

Meanwhile, there are also rumors claiming that Apple will release another smartphone model ahead of the iPhone 7 – the iPhone 6S. The release of the iPhone 6S is backed by the claims of Cowen and Company analyst Timothy Arcuri who said that a smartphone with a 4-inch screen display will be released in spring alongside Apple's first wearable device, the Apple Watch.