Apple iOS beta makes it easier to open iPhone while wearing a mask

A beta version of Apple’s new iOS distributed to developers Wednesday will make it easier to unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask.

iOS 13.5 will be able to detect if users are wearing the recommended protective gear and immediately present the passcode field when the phone is activated instead of unsuccessfully trying to scan a covered face.

FaceID will work as normal when users aren’t wearing masks.

iOS 13.5 also includes the first version of Apple and Google’s coronavirus contact tracing software package for exposure notifications.

Once the update arrives, users will be able to toggle a setting to enable or disable your phone from using Bluetooth to share random identifiers with passersby.

Once public health officials use the program — called an API — to develop apps, users will be able to opt in to sharing a positive COVID-19 diagnosis or receiving a notification if you came close to someone who was diagnosed.

“Intended to help developers begin testing in anticipation of the API’s release in mid-May, another goal of the release is to encourage feedback that will help improve the various features,” representatives for Apple and Google said Wednesday.

“Collaboration and transparency have been two key principles of the project for both companies. Additional details will be announced on Friday.”

Apple does not have set timing for when iOS 13.5 will be available to the public.