Apple's Alleged In-Screen Fingerprint Sensor to Restore Touch ID Functionality on iPhones in 2021
Despite the acclaim surrounding Apple's FaceID technology, introduced on the iPhone X in 2017, the elimination of Touch ID sparked controversy. Despite absenting from new iPhone models for the past two years, there's a rumor rekindling hope for Touch ID's return, according to a prominent Apple analyst.
Ming-Chi Kuo, a renowned analyst, suggests an iPhone release in 2021 comprising both FaceID and TouchID. The innovative twist is by integrating a fingerprint sensor directly into the display, substituting the former integrated Home button.
While we've embraced optical fingerprint sensors, as seen in the OnePlus 7 Pro, Kuo speculates that Apple will likely employ Qualcomm's ultrasonic ones, similar to Samsung's Galaxy S10. Previous hurdles, like power consumption and sensor dimensions, should be surmounted by 2021.
Earlier this year, Apple filed patents relating to in-screen fingerprint sensors, suggesting a comprehensive scan option from any display area, as opposed to confined areas underphone displays.
While Kuo doesn't pinpoint Touch ID's reappearance in other Apple devices, he does imply that in-screen sensor development makes Touch ID more viable for Apple Watch. The potential for Touch ID's resurrection as an efficient local two-factor authentication option, particularly when FaceID is less effective, is intriguing.
Meanwhile, for individuals who exhibit less trust or preference for facial recognition technology, a reheated Touch ID option could serve as a secure stand-in for passwords. However, it's essential to exercise caution in anticipating these advancements, as 2021 still seems far across the horizon. So, it may not be prudent to hold out for another two years before investing in a new iPhone.
Technology analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the future iPhone release in 2021 will incorporate both FaceID and TouchID, with a potential upgrade that integrates a fingerprint sensor directly into the display. This upgrade would eliminate the need for a separate Home button, as seen on devices like the OnePlus 7 Pro. Kuo also suggests that Apple may use Qualcomm's ultrasonic fingerprint sensors, overcoming previous hurdles such as power consumption and sensor dimensions. Additionally, Apple has filed patents for in-screen fingerprint sensors, hinting at a more comprehensive scan option across the entire display, not just limited areas.
