Apple Makes It Easier to Unlock iPhone While Wearing a Mask

Apple has updated its iOS software to simplify the process of unlocking newer iPhone models without relying on FaceID, which has become less effective for people who are wearing face masks to stop the spread of the coronavirus.    

FaceID was designed to automatically unlock the iPhone X, XS, and 11 when it recognizes the user's face. Now, people wearing face masks have to move the covering to unlock their iPhone, which violates common health warnings against touching your face. If they don't, they'll notice a delay as the phone fails to make a positive ID and displays a passcode entry screen instead.

The beta version of iOS 13.5, released to developers earlier this week, brings changes to FaceID intended to simplify the process. Yes, users can disable FaceID altogether, but then they lose access to the feature when not wearing a mask at home. Instead of waiting for their device to ask for a passcode, mask-wearing users can swipe up to skip the FaceID login and enter a code.

A report from NBC News indicates this beta release also comes with an early release of new software to help developers create new applications to help with contact tracing for COVID-19.

Read more details here.

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