Apple Files Patent for Potential Future iPhone Unlocking via Heartbeat

 

iPhone users currently have two main options for unlocking their devices: Face ID or a passcode. However, it looks like in the near future, they might also be able to unlock their iPhones with their 'hearts.' According to a report from Apple Insider, Apple is developing a feature that would allow users to unlock their iPhone simply by holding it. The patent for this technology was filed in August 2022 and has already been granted to Apple.

How Your Heartbeat Could Unlock Your iPhone or Apple Watch

Currently, users must first unlock their Apple Watch with a passcode before they can use it to unlock their Mac. However, upcoming technology could eliminate the need for passwords by using unique cardiovascular measurements for authentication. For instance, once you unlock your Apple Watch with a passcode, you could then use it to unlock your Mac by taking an ECG reading, bypassing the need for a password. If you keep your watch on your wrist, it will continuously authenticate you for unlocking other devices.

Apple's patent also hints at a new iPhone design that would let users authenticate their heart rate simply by holding the device. Additionally, the heart-measuring sensors on the iPhone might also be able to gauge users' moods.

As of now, this technology is still in the patent application phase, so it's unclear if Apple has begun testing it. Even if they are working on it, it could be a few years before it becomes available to the public.