Video source: YouTube, EverythingApplePro EAP

Apple Inc (Nasdaq: AAPL) is testing new iOS software that will enable iPhone users to unlock their devices while wearing a face mask – as long as they are wearing an Apple Watch.

The update, released this week as a developer beta for those who have access, will be broadly rolled out by spring, according to Wired Magazine.

iOS 14.5 enables an iPhone to communicate with a synced Apple Watch when the smartphone is raised to use Face ID, CNN reported. Once the authentication is completed, the iPhone will automatically unlock and the Apple Watch will vibrate.

The process will work with Apple Pay, too. The App Store, iTunes store and Safari password autofill purchases and access will still require iPhone users to type in their passcode.

After facial coverings became more commonplace as part of an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, Apple began looking into ways for masked iPhone owners to use the Face ID function while staying safe.

 In April 2020, Apple added a feature that enabled people to skip the Face ID prompt while wearing a face covering and automatically offered the passcode screen.

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Source: Equities News