According to reports mentioned in DigiTimes, Apple is currently working on iPhones with iris scanning capabilities that could possibly debut in 2018. This is said to be used in place of Touch ID as a way to verify user’s identity. The iris scanning feature would perform functions like making payments and unlocking an iOS device.
Iris scanning is a technology that is gaining interest in the smartphone arena as, much like a fingerprint; each person’s iris contains a complex and random pattern that is unique to each individual. Moreover, this technology also has noted benefits over Touch ID, including no need for direct contact to unlock a device and faster unlock speeds. However, there are a few drawbacks as well, including poor functionality in low lighting and issues with performance following alcohol consumption and eye surgery among others.
While, this rumour has been viewed with scepticism, it is always possible that such an advance feature won’t be ready until a later date. Samsung, on the other than, is said to have already planned its iris recognition technology’s debut as soon as next month with Galaxy Note 7.
