iPhone 7 specs, features and release date: Patent hints at joystick for handset

iPhone 6[Photo credit: Apple]

Gamers may have a reason to choose the iPhone 7 as new rumors have surfaced that the smartphone will pack a low profile joystick to support some games. 

A new Apple patent application sparked rumors that next generation Apple devices will introduce the joystick to enable users to have more fun in gaming. The joystick might not be something glamorous though, as it makes use of the Home button and TouchID fingerprint sensor. 

The new patent shows that Apple's iPhone and iPad will include the iconic TouchID fingerprint sensor, but it will have a new use as it can be elevated. This can be transformed into a joystick by a single click and can be reverted back simply with a push. 

According to Mail Online, the Home button will have multiple functions, transforming it into button mode and joystick mode. Moreover, the head of the button will not be embossed to avoid affecting the aesthetic appearance of the smartphone and incurring damage to the feature. 

The new feature will surely benefit gamers who love mobile gaming. It may also open new possibilities and functions for some developers. However, it has limitations and not all games are in need of a joystick as there are games that use finger blocking and tapping. 

Meanwhile, the iPhone 7 is rumored to sport a 4.7-inch screen display like the current iPhone 6, although there is a chance that the iPhone 7 will have better resolution. There are whispers that the handset will make use of a sapphire covering material. Under the hood, the smartphone is predicted to run using an A9 processor and an M9 co-processor paired with Apple's homegrown iOS 9. 

It is most likely that the iPhone 7 will be released in September following the patterned release window of Apple. However, the Cupertino-based company has not spilled the details about any upcoming Apple device.