One of the issues of Apple’s Face ID was the unprecedented use of the face mask which rendered the service almost useless. Apple updated the Apple Watch to unlock the iPhone when a mask is detected as a stopgap measure to deal with user inconvenience. However, this solution will require all iPhone users to have an Apple Watch. This is not entirely convenient for all users especially those without an Apple Watch. According to recent reports, Apple is testing new technologies, and we don’t know if it will be used on iPhone 13. Apple is currently testing its new upgraded Face ID sensor array is being tested.
The biggest feature of this sensor is that it can be used with masks. Jon Prosser checked the images and videos of about 75 prototype devices and produced a comprehensive rendering. The test device shows that the Face ID array on the top of the iPhone 12 has some obvious changes.
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The array arrangement tested is different from the current Face ID array, and the size looks more slender. For example, the camera on the test device is on the left, while the selfie camera of the iPhone 12 is on the right.
As of now, there is no report on how exactly Apple is changing the Face ID technology. The source claims that the company is only testing the new feature/technology. However, there is no mention of the technical details of this device. The Face ID system that can work with masks will be an important feature of “iPhone 13”. However, this feature may be one for future iPhones.
How Face ID works with an Apple Watch even with a mask
If you activate Apple Watch unlock, you can unlock your iPhone by simply lifting your iPhone to turn on the screen. Once you lift the phone towards your face, there will be a haptic feedback on your Apple Watch. This vibration on the Watch signifies that the phone is now open for use. However, it is important to note that the phone and watch must be in close proximity. It’s better to lift the phone with the same hand as the watch for easy unlocking. However, this feature is only for unlocking the iPhone and nothing else. If you need to access App Store and iTunes purchases, you will still need a more secure authentification. Furthermore, the security check password entry is still required even if this feature is active.