Apple might be revamping its Touch ID-based fingerprint sensor tech to include something more radical – an optical fingerprint sensor that would work in tandem with face recognition technology to allow for better security.
The above revelation made by KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo comes on the back of another rumor that claims the forthcoming iPhone 8 might have a true edge-to-edge display with no home button up front.
The current capacitive Touch ID sensor makes do with a stainless-steel ring that is required to send a minor current pulse for its proper functioning. This is in addition to the sensor that is powerful enough to create a 3D-map of a fingerprint, taking into account the sub-dermal layers of the skin as well.
However, with the 10th anniversary iPhone 8 expected to have a zero-bezel display, Apple will have no choice but to have a sensor that is able to operate from beneath the display. Several of Apple’s recent patent applications have also indicated the company’s intention to favor incorporating facial recognition technology over an iris scanner.
The design challenges of integrating a fingerprint sensor that operates from beneath the display might even force Apple to rely only on the facial recognition feature instead of having both technologies onboard.
Apple is rumored to include OLED panel for its 2017 iPhone with a film sensor replacing the current FCPB sensor. This will allow for enhanced responsiveness with a metal structure placed underneath allowing for greater structural integrity. Further, the next iPhone is expected to comes with a 5.8 inch incorporated in a glass body and will have wireless charging feature.
Apple has already received some flak for failing to deliver another game changer of a device as the iPhone during the intervening 10 years. It sure would like to make up for that by launching an iPhone 8 with futuristic features or apps. It will be really interesting to see what Apple has to offer to celebrate a decade of iPhone’s existence.
