If you\u2019d like more in-depth info about how it works, you can read the full patent here<\/a>.<\/p>\n The more I think about the potential of Wrist ID, the more I like it. Yeah, I generally only take my Apple Watch off once or twice a day, but having to type in a physical passcode seems archaic \u2014 and is also pretty annoying for such an advanced piece of hardware.<\/p>\n I also wonder whether this added security could be expanded to other devices. One of my favorite Apple Watch features is how it can be used to automatically unlock your Mac \u2014 and it\u2019d be great if there was a way Wrist ID could work in a similar way with your phone. Actually achieving this is more complex than you\u2019d think (could someone nearby pick up your phone and it\u2019d unlock?), but we can dream, right?<\/p>\n Of course, there are a few things to consider before we start expecting this to appear in the next Apple Watch. First in line are the potential technical issues with Wrist ID. The Apple Watch already has problems with tattooed skin<\/a> \u2014 and although this seems to have improved over the years, there are still questions about how well tech like this would work on inked areas or darker skin tones.<\/p>\n Secondly, we have to understand that just because Apple has applied for a patent, that doesn\u2019t mean the technology will ever see the light of day.<\/p>\n Despite this, I choose to believe. Wrist ID would be an excellent addition to the Apple Watch, and I\u2019m certain the company could do a shedload of interesting stuff with the tech if it\u2019s implemented.<\/p>\n Did you know we have a newsletter all about consumer tech? It\u2019s called Plugged In \u2013 and you can subscribe to it right here<\/a>. <\/i><\/p>\n Published January 11, 2021 \u2014 10:23 UTC <\/p>\n![\"apple](\"https:\/\/cdn0.tnwcdn.com\/wp-content\/blogs.dir\/1\/files\/2021\/01\/apple-watch-wristid-scan-796x749.png\")