Apple is exploring a way to unlock phone with your heartbeat
Is Apple adding another way to unlock the iPhone besides Face ID?
Tech news site AppleInsider has discovered that the tech giant recently filed a patent for technology that can identify users based on their unique cardiovascular movements.
With this, users will be able to access their devices—without using FaceID or TouchID—simply when they're holding it in their hand as the exterior would have a heart monitor.
The patent, first filed in August 2022, describes a "seamlessly embedded heart rate monitor" that uses a heart sensor for detecting a user's cardiac electric signals.
"Using the detected signals, the electronic device can identify or authenticate the user and perform an operation based on the identity of the user," the abstract read.
Currently, the Cupertino-based company has a device with a heart rate monitor, the Apple Watch. This wearable is actually able to unlock a MacBook using an ECG reading if a user has paired the two gadgets.
Additionally, the patent stated that the technology can determine a user's mood using cardiac signals and provide related data.
In May 2024, Apple rolled out a new State of Mind feature where users can log their emotions and moods throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the upcoming watchOS 11 is rumored to be getting automatic nap detections so users no longer have to put their smartwatch on Sleep Focus to track and monitor their shut-eye time.
The latest iOS 18 and watchOS 11 are slated to come out in September 2024, with the iPhone's operating system getting new features like advanced customization for the home screen layout, redesigned Control Center, a Passwords app, and the company's own AI, Apple Intelligence.
Reports, however, say that Apple Intelligence may get delayed until October.