iPhone 7 Release Date, Specs Rumors: Apple Expanding Use of New Force Touch Technology from Apple Watch and MacBook

Apple is reportedly working relentlessly to create the next range of iPhones, with the new iPhone 7 expected out later this year in September 2015.

A supplier recently hinted that Apple could make full use of the new "Force Touch" technology, which the company already used in its Apple Watch and the newly released MacBook.

A report by the Wall Street Journal said the sensors that measure how hard a user presses on the screen are being tested by suppliers. Apple is known to test many technologies and features in its upcoming iPhone line with suppliers before deciding whether or not to include them in its products. However, the series of tests does not guarantee that Force Touch will be used in the new iPhone line, sources said.

If the Force Touch technology is developed further, it could drastically change how users interact with the iPhone as the device would be able to differentiate between a gentle tap and a deep press with a finger. Apple has explained that while using Safari a deep press by the user on an address in an email will cause it to be displayed in Maps.

Forbes said the Force Touch on the Apple Watch paves the way for the company to bring it to its upcoming iPhones. On the iPhone, Force Touch could help developers reduce the number of on-screen buttons which are visible on many games. Instead users will be able to apply different degrees of pressure directly on the screen to bring up the menu or other controls.

CNET said if Force Touch does come to the iPhone it could do away with the two-finger swiping motion which is currently used to zoom into a screen or out from. Instead users will be able to use a hard press on the screen to zoom into a particular portion.