Apple's next iPhone (5S) may come with a fingerprint sensor to identify its owner. Future iPhones will have biometric scanners that read fingerprints to offer more protection unlike plain passwords. Mobile security is increasingly essential in the smartphones.

When a beta version of iOS 7 was released Monday night to Apple developers, there is a folder labeled "Biometric Kit." Its content orients iPhone users to press their thumbs to their device, according to reports by 9to5Mac, Extreme Tech and other blogs. During the setup process, it further places a fingerprint that changes color and follows with "fingerprint status" and "recognition is complete."

"You can then unlock your phone by putting your thumb on the home button. No longer will friends and family be able to pick up and peruse your phone -- no longer will you have to key in your passcode every time you want to do something," wrote Sebastian Anthony for Extreme Tech.

Other than the new smartphone, dubbed the iPhone 5S, there are also Motorola's Atrix 4G featuring a biometric fingerprint sensor for extra level of security beyond password or PIN locks and Galaxy S3 with a Face Unlock feature designed to unlock once recognizing its owner's face. Lenovo also tried out the same feature.

The new iPhone 5S is also rumored to have an A7 processor, better battery life and an enhanced camera, possibly with a slow-motion video function. It would be easier to confirm our identity for payment for purchases from the App Store and other counters.

A news report that had stated that Apple had bought out security firm AuthenTec, which specializes in biometric technologies, further backs up Apple's plans. Many blogs have rumors found unproven and there's no evidence that such a feature will show up on the next iPhone, expected to be released this September.