Apple tests new biometric technologies to unlock next iPhone: report

Apple is testing on two biometric technologies to unlock the future iPhone instead of its traditional fingerprint scanner, named as Touch ID, it first introduced on iPhone 5s in 2013, reported Bloomberg.

According to the report, Apple is working on an improved security system for its future smartphones that allow users to log in, authenticate payments, and launch secure apps by scanning their face. The system in works will be powered by a new 3-D sensor, whose speed and accuracy will be focal point for Apple, so much so that it could unlock the iPhone even if it is lying flat on table, rather than just close up to the face, a person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg.

Additionally, the Cupertino-based tech giant is also testing iris scanner technology to embed in future iPhone models. The technology is also featured in Samsung Galaxy S8 smartphone. Apple is expected to launch its next flagship smartphone, the iPhone 8, in September this year, with improved features including an OLED panel with a virtual home button for a bezel-less screen.

An earlier statement by KGI securities had hinted on Apple plans on replacing the Touch ID sensor with a new optical fingerprint sensor, and adding facial recognition sensors to unlock the next iPhone model. However, the recent report claims the technologies are still in testing stage and may not appear with the next device, at least not this September

This article was originally published on Deccan Chronicle.