Recent online leaks of Microsoft's upcoming handset, Lumia 940, specifications suggest that the device will be a major improvement over its predecessor - the Lumia 930.

IB Times reports tech blog FudZilla has claimed that sources told them that Microsoft is close to unveiling Lumia 940, which will sport a number of industry first features such as Iris scanner biometric technology.

According to the sources, the Lumia 940 will also sport a near Infra-red sensor on the front, with a view to enable the Iris scanner detect the owner's eyes even in the low-light condition. However, there is one drawback - the users will be required to remove their glasses for the phone to watch their eyes.

While it may seem something far-fetched, it is believed that a number of companies are secretly developing the 'Iris Scanner' for smartphones. For instance, the semiconductor division of the South Korean tech firm Samsung is currently working on this advanced biotechnology. There were rumors that the company's Galaxy S6 devices would incorporate this biotechnology, but it did not happen.

In case Microsoft does incorporate the Iris Scanner in the upcoming Lumia 940, it will raise the bar for its competitors.

For those who are not conversant with the issue, reportedly the 'Iris Recognition' will be further advanced as well as almost fool-proof system; since it involves camera technology by way of subtle infrared illuminations to capture the complete nerve pattern on the iris (eye). Digital impressions are created by mathematical and statistical algorithm employing this information to create an accurate profile.

Different from the finger-print scanner, it is almost impossible for any impostor to crack this biometric technology. On the other hand the finger-print scanner can be decoded using a fake thumb print.

A docking station to connect to accessories such as audio system or PCs like Motorola's Atrix smartphone is another key feature the Lumia 940.

It is expected that the Lumia 940 will come with a big rear camera, which will be anywhere between 20 and 30-megapixel. It is said that Microsoft is undecided whether to use the 805 series Snapdragon CPU or latest 64-bit class 810 series processor in the new phone.

At this stage, the specs discussed above are mere speculations as Microsoft has yet to make an official announcement regarding the Lumia 940 specs or its launch date.