Touch ID is not returned with the iPhone 13, although Apple has tested the lower screen sensor

Despite having tried and worked on the technology, Apple has decided not to include an on-screen Touch ID sensor with the upcoming iPhone 13, which continues to leave customers with Face ID as the only biometric authentication option for the iPhone.

Apple had been testing “Touch ID” technology that would have allowed the company to place the sensor under the screen of the “iPhone”, allowing users to simply put their finger on the screen to authenticate. Although Apple regularly tests and researches new ideas and technologies, reports earlier this year had suggested that the company was on track to include ‌Touch ID‌ on the screen with the 2021 iPhones.

Now, though, Apple’s plans have changed drastically since From Bloomberg Mark Gurman reports in his latest Power On newsletter, a “Touch ID” sensor under the “won’t make the cut” screen for the iPhone 13‌. Gurman claims that Apple’s ultimate goal is to embed Face ID on the screen instead of “Touch ID”.

Currently, the second-generation iPhone SE is the only “iPhone” in the line that includes “Touch ID”, but has recently reappeared on the iPad. With the latest generation iPad Air, Apple engineers were able to embed “Touch ID” on the power button. Apple could choose to bring this same technology to future low-end iPhones, while maintaining exclusive Face ID for high-end models.

The reasons for Apple’s decision to abandon its initial plan to include “Touch ID” with the iPhone 13 are unknown; however, the company may not believe the technology is mature enough to fit into its flagship iPhones. On the other hand, the company may have felt less pressure to include the feature after the release of iOS 14.5, which allows customers to unlock their iPhones with their Apple Watch.

The global health crisis and the fact of wearing a face mask daily increased the demand for ouTouch ID‌, as facial identification does not work while the user is wearing a face mask. Apple fixed the issue with iOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4, allowing customers to unlock their “iPhone” while wearing a mask, as long as they have an Apple Watch.

While the lack of a ‌Touch ID‌ sensor under the screen will be disappointing for some, Apple is still planning considerable upgrades with the iPhone 13‌. The new iPhones will focus heavily on camera features, including ProRes and portrait mode for videos. The new phones will also include a smaller notch, larger batteries and improved performance.