![2023 Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch M2 Pro review](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HZDA6SfUAgzBhWa6Gg8XV8-415-80.png)
Authentication is a massive part of the iPhone experience. Over the last few years, we've moved from passcodes, to Touch ID, and now Face ID. That means that security is now based on unique biometric indicators, which should make your data even safer.
Now, that same technology could be coming to the MacBook range. It's been rumoured for a while, but a patent was recently filed by the company which suggests it is back in the frame for future releases.
It's not just as simple as taking the module from the iPhone and slapping it into a Mac chassis, though. As the patent details, users undertake more complex tasks on a computer, and storing the sensitive biometric data alongside that complex data could pose a potential security risk.
The patent also recognises the need to maintain slim proportions. In order to achieve this, their design utilises "a light pattern recognition module" which emits a predetermined light pattern like infrared and features another layer which can recognise the reflection from that pattern of light.
The application also suggests that it will be housed in the notch. That's not really surprising, though it could point to a little more longevity for that particular feature – don't expect a Mac Dynamic Island anytime soon.
So, when are we likely to see it on devices? Well, not anytime soon. As ever, while the technology has appeared on a patent, it's not guaranteed to appear on a device in the near future – or ever, in fact. See, while big companies like Apple patent a lot of technology, not all of it will make it into the consumer sphere.
With this one, though, I think it will. It's not as outlandish as some of the other patents which have made news in recent months, and would make a lot more sense in the context of their current product range.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
In fact, I wouldn't be surprised to see it in the relatively near future. Assuming their development team don't run into any major hurdles with the design and manufacture of the part, it would be a decent upgrade to add to any Mac in the line.
We'll have to wait and see what the future holds. In the meantime, users looking for new things to look forward to on Macs can sink their teeth into details of the M3 chip range. Those are expected to start cropping up from later this year.
Online news writer at T3.com, Sam has five years of experience in online and print journalism, with work featured in publications like Metro and Last Word on Sports. After years writing about music and football, Sam now turns his hand to bringing you news about new phones, smart home products, smart watches, laptops and TVs. Sam is a longtime fan and user of Apple products, including iPhones, MacBooks and Apple Watches.He’s also T3’s resident football expert, bringing you everything you need to know about the big games, including how to watch them. In his spare time, Sam is a keen guitarist, watch lover and (very) amateur golfer.
-
iPhone 17 slated for one massive camera upgrade which photographers will love
The question is, will it be too technical for non-photographers?
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple Vision Pro just got a load of new reasons to justify that cost
Some of the extra content coming sounds incredible
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple's iPad is now at a record-low price this Amazon Prime Day
If you've been waiting to pick up an Apple iPad, now might be the time to buy
By David Nield Published
-
Surprise new Apple HomePod mini arrives, and you can order it today
Apple has announced a new Apple HomePod mini
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Diver gets his Apple Watch back a year after losing it in the ocean – thanks to Find My
When technology works, it really works
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Forget Amazon Prime Day – MacBook Air now at lowest-ever price at Walmart
Apple silicon computing for less
By David Nield Published
-
iPhone 16 Pro could finally add something Android users have been enjoying for years
This is one rumour we can definitely get on board with
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
iPhone 16 "design changes" could impact Face ID on forthcoming handsets
No one's sure what it'll look like
By Max Freeman-Mills Published