The iPhone of the future may work underwater and have advanced auto-rotation

Apple has had new filings approved by the US Patent and Trademarks Office (USPTO) for features most likely to fit into its upcoming mobile devices. One of them refers to the ability to use a touchscreen while the same is underwater. This may be useful in some kinds of photography, and also suggests that the iPhone in question would be waterproof, whereas they are rated for water-resistance at present.

This claim is contained within US Patent 20200104021, and also indicates that the underwater-function is indeed intended to preserve access to specific aspects the user interface (UI). The new intellectual property (IP) may also render a phone capable of telling when it has been removed from the water, and cause the UI to revert to where it had been prior to its submersion.

Apple has also applied for US Patent 20200104033, which refers to a new application of Face ID. This one may consistently scan a user's face for its orientation relative to the phone. This data would then be used to adjust that of the screen's contents automatically.

Therefore, an iPhone with this feature might have auto-rotate settings that are more advanced and more responsive - or look that way, at least. Both patents were granted on April 2, 2020; therefore, these devices are not likely to be 11-series successors.