Depending on the fingerprint that was captured, a particular action may be carried out when the device is unlocked. In one example, a fingerprint of an index finger may indicate that a call is to be placed. When the fingerprint of the user's index finger is captured, when the mobile device is unlocked, a telephone application may be launched to allow the user to place a call after the mobile device has been unlocked. Apple has been updating its software to make it easier to jump to commonly used apps and functions. The iPhone 6S included a feature named 3D Touch that let users press on the phone screen to quickly jump to functions within apps. And the company's iOS 9 mobile operating system included Siri app suggestions that provide a list of commonly used apps.
Of course, just because Apple has patented a system for a panic mode on iPhones doesn't mean that it's actually going to be included in a future iPhone. The company often patents different hardware and software products as a form of marketing, and also to stop rival companies launching the same products.