The latest beta version of iOS7, Apple's iPhone and iPad operating system, seems to confirm rumors that the iPhone 5S will have a fingerprint scanner embedded in its homekey.
A "biometrics kit" folder has been discovered in the iOS7 code, which was pushed
out to developers on Monday. The folder and its supporting text string, which
even describes a person holding the device while applying their thumb to the
button, was first discovered by developer Hamza Sood.
Last year Apple acquired AuthenTec, which builds one of world's smallest banking
standard biometric scanners.
Adding a biometric scanner would require the owner's fingerprint to unlock a
device, making the phone useless to thieves. In addition, fingerprint data is
unique, meaning that it could be used as a secure alternative to traditional
text passwords for other apps.
The next iPhone is expected to be officially unveiled in September.