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Secret iPhone 6 feature uncovered?

Published Jul 10th, 2014 9:26AM EDT
iPhone 6 Specs: Haptic Feedback
Image: Mark Pelin

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Apple’s iPhone 6 smartphone is not exactly the best-kept secret in the tech world, with more and more leaks revealing new details about the upcoming handset. A new report from Chinese publication Laoyaoba has learned about a new secret iPhone 6 feature, which may be an important one for certain users and app developers. Apparently, the new iPhone 6 will incorporate a more advanced vibration motor that could offer better tactile feedback to users, depending on the app they’re using or the area they tap on the screen.

FROM EARLIER: iPhone 6: What you have to do to break its unbreakable display

The new tactile motor will reportedly cost two to three times more than the one found in the iPhone 5s — that one apparently costs $0.60 — which could be interpreted as a second indication that Apple is looking at a more complex way to offer tactile feedback to iPhone buyers.

While the report can’t be confirmed at this time, there’s more indirect proof that Apple has been looking into creating better haptic feedback mechanisms for touchscreen devices.

A patent application filed on September 21, 2010, published on March 22, 2012, and called “Touch-based user interface with haptic feedback” details means of providing tactile feedback to electronic devices that incorporate a touch-based interface including the iPhone.

A patent awarded on February 19, 2013 (filed on July 17, 2009) and called “Method and apparatus for localization of haptic feedback” describes a technology that would allow Apple to provide localized tactile feedback to iPhone users.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.