Apple iPhone 13 Face ID to work with masks; selfie camera to be placed differently: Report

The iPhone 13 series could be launched on September 14, and released to the public later that week on September 17.

The addition of a new Face ID tech could be welcome news for those looking to purchase the iPhone 13. (REUTERS)

The iPhone 13 launch seems to be just around the corner, but that isn't stopping rumours from coming in. Apple is reportedly testing a new Face ID hardware for the iPhone 13 lineup. It is said that the new Face ID will work with face masks and even foggy glasses. The tech is rumoured to sit under a smaller notch and is believed to have different positioning for the selfie camera. Hence, the iPhone 13 series could have a differently placed selfie shooter when compared to the predecessor.

According to a report from FrontPageTech, Apple has provided a special case to its employees to let them test the new Face ID array with their iPhone 12. It is tipped that the case fits snug around the iPhone 12. Once it is connected, it uses the array as the default source for biometric authentication. This may allow Apple to test the next-generation Face ID hardware on a large scale, without bringing the unreleased iPhone 13 out.

The addition of a new Face ID tech could be welcome news for those looking to purchase the new iPhone in a world where masks are a constant. When the pandemic first hit, and everyone was required to wear a mask, Apple was criticised for not providing Touch ID in its new iPhones. For reference, competing Android players have included under-display fingerprint scanners for authentication on their offerings. Apple was then rumoured to include a new form of Touch ID on its future iPhones. However, as per a recent report, it is likely that there won't be any Touch ID on the upcoming iPhone 13 series.

As of now, Apple is reportedly asking its participating employees to wear masks and glasses to test the new hardware. In some cases, the tests are also said to be conducted with either masks or both masks and glasses on the face. The company is also tipped to have asked the employees to use the technology in indoor and outdoor environments and with a range of different styles and shapes of masks and eyeglasses.

The iPhone 13 series could be launched on September 14, and released later that week on September 17. Apple is touted to introduce its next-gen AirPods and iPad mini alongside the iPhone 13 lineup.