Apple may be looking for ways to make unlocking the iPhone even easier.
The company recently filed for a patent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that would sense a user's location and adjust security levels accordingly.
For example, if the device is on the owner's home network or a frequently visited location (like your office), the iPhone could bypass the typical PIN security code or fingerprint scan and keep the phone unlocked.
"Because some locations may be inherently more secure, such as a user's home or office, these locations may be considered 'safe' and require less stringent security," the patent filing reads. "It can be desirable to have decreased security requirements when the mobile device is at a secure location."
This drawing, featured in Apple's patent filing, shows how an auto-lock system might detect devices at home.
Image: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
On the other side, if a user enters certain "unsecure" areas, security protections could be increased beyond just the passcode.
"In these locations, it can be desirable to implement stronger security protections. When the mobile device is in an unsecure location (e.g., public location such as cafes or shopping centers), security requirements can be increased," the filing reads.
While in heightened security areas, users would likely have to enter a PIN code as well as use Apple's TouchID technology รข€" its high-tech fingerprint sensor that debuted in fall 2013.
Although the company filed for a "location-sensitive security levels" patent back in December 2012, and was granted the patent last week, it's uncertain whether or not this type of technology will ever make its way into an upcoming iPhone.
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