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Daily Record
Daily Record
Science
Ketsuda Phoutinane

iPhones and iPads to recognise face masks in major new Apple update

The latest Apple update has made it possible for iPhones and iPads to recognise people wearing masks.

Face ID, which is used for unlocking devices and security purposes, can now be used by mask-wearing users due to an update released this week.

Users will have to download the iOS 15.4 update and enable the feature in the settings of their device.

The update comes in good time for Scots as the mask mandate has been extended for a fortnight until April 4.

It is the first time Apple devices will be mask-friendly since the pandemic began.

The major update also includes a feature called Universal Control, a gender-neutral new Siri voice, and new emojis.

Face ID on Apple can be unlocked by people wearing masks (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

The update comes with 37 new emojis for Apple users, including a shocked looking face peeking behind two hands, a lip-biting emoji, and a pregnant person.

A feature called Universal Control can be used right after installing the update which allows people to control Macs and iPads together with one mouse and keyboard.

Siri's new gender-neutral American voice has been rolled out with iOS 15.4.

"We're excited to introduce a new Siri voice for English speakers, giving users more options to choose a voice that speaks to them," said Apple in a statement to Axios.

"Millions of people around the world rely on Siri every day to help get things done, so we work to make the experience feel as personalized as possible."

Apple's new mask-friendly feature has debuted in their latest update (AFP via Getty Images)

How to set up Face ID to work with face masks

  1. Make sure that your iPhone has iOS 15.4 or later.
  2. Open Settings, then tap Face ID & Passcode.
  3. Scroll down and turn on Face ID with a Mask.

How to update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch wirelessly

  1. Back up your device using iCloud or your computer.
  2. Plug your device into a power source and connect to the internet with Wi-Fi.
  3. Go to Settings > General, then tap Software Update.
  4. If you see two software update options available, choose the one you want to install.
  5. Tap Install Now. If you see Download and Install instead, tap it to download the update, enter your passcode, then tap Install Now. If you don't know your passcode, find out what to do.

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