The iPhone 7 release date is still far off - likely to come in September 2015 - but the rumor mill is on fire with a lot of alleged specs and features. Apple's patents have hinted at the upcoming features of the handsets.

Some of the rumored specifications of the iPhone 7 are: Sapphire glass covering, A9 processor, iOS 9, built-in projector, and organic battery. Below are the alleged specs and features of the iPhone 7 brought about by Apple patents.

3D screen display

It is expected that Apple's iPhone 7 will pack an improved Graphical user interface (GUI). There is speculation that the iPhone 7 will pack a 3D screen display. This will most likely happen, according to tech website 9to5Mac, Apple was awarded with a new patent related to 3D GUI. The patent also detailed motion detection technology.

Improved TouchID fingerprint sensor

Another possible feature of the smartphone is an improved TouchID fingerprint sensor with added functions. One of the examples of the new functions is creating a pattern to control the digital lock in the handset. The TouchID will also yield to super-precise for finer control of functions that needs finger movements.

Anti-break mechanism

Apple will resolve the problems with the latest iPhone's brittle screen as the company is granted a new patent that will change the position or angle of the iPhone when dropped. The technology aims to break the fall of the device to prevent damage or breakage of the sensitive parts and internal components of the smartphone.

According to the patent, the technology will alter the center of gravity to detect the point of impact of the smartphone.

However, although Apple has filed and has granted a patent, it does not mean that Apple will include it in the smartphone. Patents are also used to preserve and protect technology from others who want to develop it. Apple has done it before and it has filed various technologies that have not appeared in its line of devices yet.

The iPhone 7 is rumored to be released in the fall of 2015, but Apple has not commented on the rumors yet and is currently focusing on the supply of iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.