Apple may have ditched its Touch ID fingerprint reader on its recent "X" series phones, but the company may not be done with fingerprint sensors completely.
Apple is working on an in-display fingerprint sensor that could launch with the 2020 iPhone models. Sources speaking to Bloomberg say that Apple's in-display fingerprint sensor would let users scan their fingerprint on a "large portion" of the screen and that it would work together with Apple's Face ID unlocking tech.
This new in-display Touch ID feature could launch with the 2020 iPhones, as it's said that suppliers have successfully gotten it integrated into iPhone hardware. Apple hasn't been able to begin mass production of its in-display fingerprint sensor tech, though, and so it's possible that the feature could slip to the 2021 iPhone launch.
While Apple has been working to improve its Face ID face unlocking tech, and it's expected that the iPhone 11 will have an updated Face ID sensor, some folks just prefer unlocking their phone with their fingerprint. For example, you can unlock your phone more easily with your finger when you're taking it out of your pocket, meaning it'll be ready immediately when you raise it to your face. Having both options will give users the freedom to unlock their phone however they'd prefer while keeping a cleaner design since Touch ID will be integrated into the screen rather than requiring a dedicated fingerprint reader on the front or back of the phone.
Do you prefer fingerprint readers or face unlock on your phone?