

Apple might be planning to remove the physical Touch ID button and directly integrate biometric functionality to the display for its 2017 iPhone model, according to an IANS report. Apple introduced Touch ID with the iPhone 5S back in 2013, which has since featured on all newer devices. The company has since been improving the accuracy of the fingerprint sensor and speed of unlocking.
With the Touch ID button gone, a user will need to press on a designated Touch ID area of the display to access the biometrics sensor. The user will feel a vibration when the feature is activated and then unlock the device.
This feature falls in line with earlier reports, claiming that the new iPhone might sport an OLED curved display – ditching its aluminium frame design for an all glass phone. The phone is also rumoured to carry active sidewalls on its curved display and virtual buttons.
Touch ID is used on the iPhone to unlock the device, safeguard data, Apple Pay, and app purchases. With the upcoming iOS 10, Touch ID can also be used for mobile purchases through a device’s Safari browser.
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Apple has not officially talked about any of these features, but considering that 2017 will mark the 10-year anniversary since the first iPhone – Apple is rumoured to give the iPhone a major overhaul.
Rumours also suggest that Apple is planning to include the Touch ID feature with its new MacBook Pro 13-inch and 15-inch lineup, along with a mini OLED screen that will provide touch control buttons.