'Open Sesame iPhone' Face ID Works Even with Mask On [Cha Min-young's PostIT]

Apple to Release iOS 14.5 Update Soon
iPhone Face ID Linked with Apple Watch
Unlock iPhone While Wearing Mask
Diverse Skin Tones for Couple Emojis
Users Can Choose Siri Voice Default Setting

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Minyoung Cha] #. 'A seamless experience connecting all your devices as one' is Apple's motto, spanning various devices from iPhone to iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, and AirPods. The new operating system update, iOS 14.5, unveiled through eight beta tests so far, also focuses on delivering a seamless customer experience.

The iPhone operating system (OS) iOS 14.5 update, expected to be released within days, is anticipated to include a feature that unlocks the iPhone Face ID using the Apple Watch. Face ID is a function that recognizes the user's face to enable smartphone use. However, with the recent widespread use of masks due to COVID-19, users have expressed frustration at having to remove their masks frequently for facial recognition. The enthusiasm of 'Apple fans' who willingly participate in beta tests with errors and actively share feedback has also grown.

Limited to 2m Distance Between iPhone and Apple Watch

Apple found a clue in the Apple Watch. When Face ID operates on the iPhone and the iPhone experiences recognition issues due to a mask, it sends a haptic signal to check if the same user is wearing an Apple Watch. If the Apple Watch is unlocked, the iPhone grants access. The Apple Watch uses a skin recognition system that requires a one-time password unlock after being put on, and then maintains the unlocked state as long as it remains in contact with the skin.

iPhone 12 series [Image source=Yonhap News]

Some have raised security concerns, such as the possibility of the iPhone unlocking if someone else wears a stolen Apple Watch, but there are safeguards. Even if someone else wears Apple Watch owned by person A, they must remove the mask several times a day for facial recognition, and the physical distance between the iPhone and Apple Watch must be within 2 meters. This process is expected to be very fast, so users will not feel inconvenienced.

Previously, Apple applied a login method using the Apple Watch to the MacBook last year. When the MacBook is turned on, it detects the user wearing the Apple Watch nearby and automatically unlocks. Manual login is required only the first time the MacBook is used, after which the Apple Watch logs in on behalf of the user.

App Tracking Transparency Feature... Facebook Strongly Opposes

Source=Dave Stangis Twitter, MacRumors

Privacy protection features are also strengthened. The so-called 'App Tracking Transparency' feature allows users to actively permit or deny apps the right to track their activity while using data. Developers must obtain permission before tracking users in apps using personal data.

App companies that have relied on personalized advertising and other business models using personal data are inevitably impacted. According to IT specialist site MacRumors, Facebook recently ran full-page ads in major newspapers such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, expressing strong opposition. If Apple includes this in the iOS 14.5 update as expected, conflicts are inevitable.

'AI Assistant' Siri Evolves... Emojis Diversify

Apple's AI voice assistant Siri will no longer have a default initial voice setting. When activating Siri during the device's initial setup, users can choose from four voices?two male and two female. Also, when listening to music with AirPods, Siri will notify users of incoming texts and calls. Siri can be instructed to initiate group video calls or send group messages by calling contacts. In moments when direct contact is difficult, Siri can call emergency contacts on the user's behalf.

The skin tones of couple emojis reflecting user personality will be adjustable to five options. For gamers, wireless game controller support is added. Sony PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X·S controllers will be connectable to iPhone and iPad.

However, the exact release date of the finalized iOS 14.5 update remains uncertain, consistent with Apple's secrecy. The market strongly anticipates the new update to be unveiled after Apple's special event scheduled for 2 a.m. KST on the 21st. The event is expected to introduce new iPads and AirTags.