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The latest iOS and watchOS updates finally add a mask-compatible unlocking option

Apple Watches can now unlock their linked iPhones. (Source: Apple)
Apple Watches can now unlock their linked iPhones. (Source: Apple)
Apple has released an update that allows a user to unlock their iPhone with their Apple Watch should they be wearing a mask at the time. This new iOS 14.5 setting requires the latest version of watchOS (7.4) to work. iPhones on the latest corresponding software upgrade can also now use App Tracking Transparency to allow or deny activity-tracking in a highly granular manner.

Apple is now rolling the latest iPadOS, iOS and watchOS updates out to its mobile devices and wearables worldwide. Combining some of them allows a user with both an iPhone and a Watch to get around the OEM's  device-unlocking discrepancies in the mask-up age.

Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch is a new feature developed by Apple whereby FaceID on iOS 14.5 works presence of a linked wearable on watchOS 7.4, even if it thinks the user is wearing a face-mask. No more annoying failed verifications while outdoors.

iOS 14.5 also confers App Tracking Transparency on an iPhone. It may result in new dialog boxes with buttons that allow the user to turn off an app's ability to track the user's habits when it comes to browsing and even using different apps.

AirTag activation, pairing and use is also switched on with these new updates. Therefore, users should be able to re-name, manage, and hunt down their new little smart-tracking pucks on-screen. This latest Apple software may also make iPhones or iPads more compatible with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S controllers.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2021 04 > The latest iOS and watchOS updates finally add a mask-compatible unlocking option
Deirdre O'Donnell, 2021-04-27 (Update: 2021-04-27)