While many states are already moving to remove their mask mandates, Cupertino-based tech giant Apple is reportedly still working on software that allows iPhone users to unlock their phones even when wearing masks.
The technology may be a little too late since it has been nearly two years since the pandemic began, but Apple is still adamant about making the technology available to all of its users. The update to its facial recognition system, called Face ID, is reportedly available as a beta version on its iOS 15.4 update.
Apple said that because Face ID is only able to obtain limited biometric information, the system is still not fully reliable. The company said there would be times that the system would not be able to recognize a user, prompting the device to ask for a passcode.
Users who have tested the beta version said Face ID unlocking with a mask on is "hit or miss" in most cases. Apple said Face ID would only unlock the device if it could gather enough information to confirm the user's identity, even when he or she is wearing a mask, glasses, or even a hat. Face ID only has to gather critical facial features, including eye shape, eye distance, nose ridge shape, and facial structure, to build a consistent image that it can authenticate.
Last year, Apple had released a partial solution to its Face ID system that authenticated users without them having to remove their masks. However, that system was largely inconsistent, and most users were either forced to remove their masks or enter their passcode to access their device.
Apple's move comes just days after California's top health official stated that he anticipates being able to repeal the state's school mask mandate in the next two weeks. The decision would see California join a growing number of blue states that have broken ranks with the recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Biden administration.
Other states are also 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 mandates starting on February 28. States such as New Jersey, New York, and Illinois have also announced plans to ease masking regulations.
Over the last two weeks, COVID-19 cases have decreased in all 50 U.S. states. In 46 of the 50 states, cases have decreased by more than half. Oklahoma and Nebraska have seen the most dramatic declines, with daily infections dropping by more than 80% in the previous 14 days.
COVID-19 cases are expected to drop further in the coming months. Deaths are also finally starting to move in the downward direction.
