Once again, Apple is coming out with another update. IOS 14.5 to be exact and it’s something we have been waiting for. While we have been wanting one of these features since the start of the pandemic, it also comes with some considerations when it comes to the security of your device. The iOS 14.5 update is slated to be one of Apple’s biggest updates for its operating system. Let’s get into it!
Users have been waiting to be able to unlock their iPhone while wearing a mask for a long time and we’re finally going to get it. For the iOS 13 update, all we got was it defaulting to a passcode when a mask was detected. And since the touch ID is not on the latest phones, there was no other option. The catch is that you have to have an Apple Watch to use this feature.
According to a Forbes article, “you must enable a passcode on your Apple Watch to open your iPhone with it, but you should only have to enter this when you put the watch on each day (unless you take it off). You’ll also need to enable the Apple Watch wrist detection feature to unlock your iPhone in iOS 14.5.”
With this comes the security concerns. Face ID is more secure than using your Apple Watch to unlock your phone. When using your watch to unlock the phone, there’s no face scanning at all. Instead, when the phone detects a face mask, your watch will be prompted to unlock it that way. Apple added a feature where you can quickly “Lock iPhone” from your watch if need be.
While this feature is great for those who are tired of using their passcode or having to quickly remove their mask to unlock their phone, you might be choosing convenience over security. Cybersecurity specialist, Jake Moore, says, “anything that even bypasses security remotely makes the device slightly more vulnerable.”
Touch ID seems like the best alternative to Face ID when it comes to masks, but with Apple’s newest phones not having that option everyone has to pick and choose what works best for them.
The update will also have more features on the on-going privacy battle with Facebook. The transparency of tracking will continue to be at the forefront.
Apple is continuing to release updates, so be on the lookout for them!
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