Apple is reportedly working on integrating its Face ID biometric authentication system into MacBooks, which could be a major step forward in making your Mac more secure.
The lack of Face ID on Macs is spot on. Who has never dreamed of being able to open their laptop and have it unlock instantly, like Windows PCs using Windows Hello. The iPhone and iPad are already equipped with this facial recognition technology, but Apple has so far never integrated it into its computers.
However, Apple had adopted a notch on the screen of its high-end computers a few years ago. It was originally thought that it would house the sensors necessary for Face ID, but it was ultimately only a more efficient webcam. If one could imagine that Apple had finally abandoned the project, it would seem that the American company continues to work on its integration.
Read also – Apple explains why 2021 MacBook Pros don’t have Face ID despite the notch
Apple files new patent for Face ID on Mac
More than 6 years ago, Apple filed its first patent application for Face ID technology on Mac. Patently Apple revealed that the company had just filed another, titled ” light recognition module for determining the user of a computing device “.
As you can imagine, the module explained in the patent application filed with the US Patent Office naturally refers to a camera located in this notch, as shown in the supporting diagrams.
” By performing these complex functions, sensitive data associated with these users may be collected and/or stored by these computing devices. “, explains Apple in the patent. ” To prevent unauthorized users from accessing this sensitive data, these IT devices may incorporate user authentication systems and mechanisms “.
However, Apple notes that MacBooks are generally very thin, which means the Face ID solution must ” be compact … without sacrificing accuracy or user recognition”. To do this, Apple offers a “ light pattern recognition module » consisting of a light projector and a sensor capable of detecting reflected light, for example on your face. It remains to be seen when this technology will be finalized and integrated into the company’s MacBooks.