iPhone 7 Release Date, Specs, Features & Price: Waterproof Model Coming? Apple Patent Spills Clues

A newly-published Apple patent has surfaced online and it reveals the company's efforts in crafting devices that are able to withstand the forces of water.

The patent explains the method of waterproofing internal components of "computing devices," 9to5Mac reported. These devices aren't specified, but the outlet is convinced that the iPhone is "the most logical candidate."

At this point, rumors surrounding the iPhone 6S and iPhone 7 are all over the internet. Apple has not confirmed whether its next smartphone follows the -S convention or steps one digit higher, leaving the iPhone 6's successor in question.

Since 2014, there had been talks pegging the next iPhone to be waterproof, following the likes of the Samsung Galaxy S5 and members of the Sony Xperia series. Such models have IP67 certifications, allowing submerging at a depth of 1 m for a maximum duration of 30 minutes. It must be noted, however, that the newest Samsung Galaxy S6 does not come with this feature.

Based on the patent, Apple plans to protect integral components with a hydrophobic coating. This will be done through plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD).

Simply put, the technology aims to safeguard internally, instead of housing the entire device with an external protective mechanism (i.e. casing). The coating eventually secures high voltage parts from liquid-caused short circuits, Apple Insider noted.

For those who may not know, the closest thing to a "waterproof" iPhone comes through the aid of Optrix cases. The Optrix XD5, in particular, carries an IPX8 water immersion rating -- the highest rating possible for electronic housings.

Nevertheless, Apple could launch both the iPhone 6S and iPhone 7 in separate events. According to Know Your Mobile, the iPhone 6S is touted to launch beside the Apple Watch, while the iPhone 7 is believed to come around September.

Apple has already confirmed its San Francisco event scheduled on Mar. 9, dubbed "Spring Forward." The occasion is expected to bring the much-awaited Apple Watch, so if speculations hold truth, the iPhone 6S could only be days away.

The Daily Mail wrote earlier, "Apple could release the iPhone 6S to people who want to upgrade to a slightly cheaper model, before announcing its flagship iPhone 7 in the autumn."

The iPhone 7 is purported to come with a 5.5-inch display, 3D technology, dual-lens photography (DSLR-like imaging), 20 MP main camera, A9 processor, 2 GB of RAM, Touch ID support, reversible USB charger, a rounded aluminum body and a "very slim" profile.

Word along the grapevine also claims about the iPhone 7's sidewall displays, which appear to be reminiscent of the newly-released Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge. In terms of price, the device could sell for $649, TechRadar predicted.

With "Spring Forward" drawing closer, do you expect to see a new iPhone? Sound off in the comments section.