Business & Events

Apple issues software update that unlock iPhones while wearing a face mask

Nearly two years into the pandemic, Apple's iOS 15.4 update aims to ensure that the feature works without requiring the user to remove their mask.

The new Face ID feature was tested with many different masks by a tech writer, who found the experience 'inconsistent, Because Face ID with a mask uses less biometric information, Apple claims that there will be moments when a person is not as easily identified as when their entire face is exposed, necessitating the usage of their passcode.

'Apple later told me that the software update is designed to function with eyeglasses, but it can also work with sunglasses in some cases when Face ID can gather enough information to identify a user,' she added.

'Apple later told me that the software update is designed to operate with eyeglasses, but it can also function with sunglasses in specific instances, such as when Face ID gathers enough information to identify a person,' she noted.

'However, it is designed to be worn with a hat.' Only approximately half of the time did the two of them operate together.'

The majority of face recognition software only works by merging numerous discrete facial traits into a single consistent image. This comes just days after California's top health official stated that he 'anticipates' being able to repeal the state's divisive school mask regulation within two weeks.

The action would see California join a growing list of blue states defying the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Biden administration on masks - both of which are still yet to budge despite plummeting daily Covid infections nationwide.

'Making requirements were never put in place to last indefinitely... it's not a matter of if they will be removed. Dr. Mark Ghaly, head of the California Department of Health and Human Services, said, "It's a question of when."

According to reports, a decision could be made soon. Many California school districts will be closed for a week in February, either this week (February 14th to 18th) or next week (February 21st to 25th). It's possible that the mask regulations will be lifted when the team returns from their break next week.

Other states are beginning to pay attention to the concerns of parents and the general public. Connecticut and Massachusetts announced intentions last week to repeal their school mask laws on February 28.

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