While face masks were once rare sightings, they’re now compulsory in a range of settings across the UK.
The face coverings play a key role in stopping the spread of Covid-19, yet many iPhone users have been frustrated that their masks have prevented them from unlocking their iPhones using Apple‘s facial recognition technology, Face ID.
Now, a report indicates that Apple could be bringing back its Touch ID technology in its 2021 iPhone, in the form of an in-screen fingerprint reader, to help users unlock their smartphones without having to remove their masks.
Rather than being a replacement for Face ID, Touch ID would be an additional method of unlocking the iPhone, according to the report.
Many iPhone users have been frustrated that their masks have prevented them from unlocking their iPhone using Apple’s facial recognition technology, Face ID (stock image)
The report, by Bloomberg, indicates that changes to this year’s iPhone will be minor.
It said: ‘Apple isn’t planning major changes for this year’s iPhone line given the enhancements made to the smartphone in 2020, including 5G and new designs, according to people familiar with the situation.
‘Inside Apple, engineers consider the next iPhones another ‘S’ version of the device, the nomenclature typically given to new iPhones with minor upgrades.’
However, one of the biggest changes is expected to be the addition of an in-screen fingerprint reader, which would be offered alongside the current Face ID and passcode options.
‘Apple is still testing a key upgrade for 2021: an in-screen fingerprint reader,’ the report explains.
‘This would add a new method for users to unlock their iPhone, going beyond a passcode and Face ID facial recognition.’
Apple first introduced Touch ID in 2013, in the form of a fingerprint reader integrated into the iPhone’s home button.
However, Apple started to move away from this technology in 2017, with the introduction of Face ID in the iPhone X.
According to Bloomberg, instead of reintroducing a Home button, the Touch ID technology would be embedded within the new iPhone screen.
According to Bloomberg, instead of reintroducing a Home button, the Touch ID technology would be embedded within the new iPhone screen
This could be particularly useful for iPhone users during the Covid-19 pandemic.
‘The feature would be convenient in an environment where users wear masks, which are often incompatible with facial recognition,’ Bloomberg said.
‘An in-screen fingerprint reader, which has also been featured on Android phones for several years, could also be quicker than Face ID for some users.
‘Apple won’t remove its facial recognition scanner though as it’s still useful for augmented reality and camera features.’
Face coverings play a key role in stopping the spread of Covid-19, yet many iPhone users have been frustrated that their masks have prevented them from unlocking their iPhone using Apple’s facial recognition technology, Face ID
Several frustrated iPhone users have taken to Twitter over the last few months, complaining of being unable to unlock their smartphone with their face mask on
One iPhone user joked: ‘Think I just scared my phone with my face mask. Face ID was like who tf are you?!’
Apple has not commented on the rumours, and is yet to announce a launch data or any details for its 2021 iPhone.
If an in-screen fingerprint sensor was included in the next iPhone, it would put the smartphone in direct competition with several Android models with the same technology.
For example, the Samsung Galaxy S20 series, OnePlus 8, 8T, and 8 Pro, Xiaomi Mi 10 series, Realme X50 Pro and Asus ROG Phone 3 all feature in-screen fingerprint sensors.
Several frustrated iPhone users have taken to Twitter over the last few months, complaining of being unable to unlock their smartphone with their face mask on.
One user wrote: ‘It’s annoying that I have to remove my face mask to use my Face ID.’
Apple first introduced Touch ID in 2013, in the form of a fingerprint reader within the iPhone’s home button
Another added: ‘Having to slide down the face mask for Face ID to work is quite inconvenient.’
And one joked: ‘Think I just scared my phone with my face mask. Face ID was like who tf are you?!’
However, back in April, researchers at Tencent Security’s Xianwu Lab cracked the code on training the iPhone to recognise users while wearing a mask.
They say to use a brand-new mask, fold it in half and hook the one side around your ear so it lays flat on your face.
Hold the mask in the lower middle position with your hand, pull it to the semi-masked state without any creases.
While half of your face is covered, pull up Face ID on your iPhone and follow the prompts.
However, the team found that not all masks will work with the trick – it seems that those made of soft material are recognisable.