Apple's recently acquired patent could lead to major changes in the way cell phones and apps are unlocked.

Apple Insider reported that Apple's recent patent describes a technology that identifies a user's heartbeat and its potential applications. Since every person has a unique heartbeat, it would be possible to use this as a means of unlocking an iPhone. At this time, this is only feasible through the Apple Watch, but that could change.

Two points of contact are needed to take an ECG reading, a method of measuring the heartbeat. For example, the Apple watch has sensors on the back of the watch and on the digital crown. Apple's new patent describes a new approach to iPhone design that allows the iPhone to act as a sensor and authenticate the heartbeat when the user holds the phone.

The patent also mentions another potential use for the technology, measuring a person's mood using ECG. Apple cites the example of measuring heart characteristics during a workout and automatically playing music at the appropriate beats per minute accordingly. For example, when it is time to cool down during a workout, the phone can start playing softer music or a heavier beat to boost the exercise.

This feature would be a major boost to the iPhone's activity capabilities, including improved fitness apps. Apple recently added the ability to set individual movement goals for each day of the week. In addition, Apple has made it possible to pause the activity ring on both the iPhone and Apple Watch, reducing the stress of having to take a few days off from a workout. However, there are many more possibilities for such a feature beyond simple exercise.

It should be noted, however, that this is only a patent and we probably won't see this feature for a long time. For the time being, we will focus on Apple Intelligence in the iPhone and the upcoming new iPhone 16 series.