Face ID might be used to lock built-in iPhone apps in iOS 18

Apple is preparing to unveil iOS 18 to the public, and the tech giant is expected to make the news during today’s WWDC (Worldwide Developer Conference) 2024. The software behemoth with headquarters in Cupertino is anticipated to reveal a number of enhancements alongside iOS 18. Indeed, iOS 18 is expected to represent a significant advancement over its predecessor. Members of the Apple Developer Program should have access to the first beta of iOS 18 right after the keynote speech. September is when the public should be able to download the final version of iOS 18.

According to a recent MacRumors story, a new security feature that lets users lock specific apps will be included in the next version of iOS 18. With this new feature, users will be able to use Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode to secure built-in iPhone apps including Mail, Messages, Notes, Phone, Photos, Safari, Settings, and more.

With an extra layer of security for sensitive data inside apps, this new feature seeks to improve privacy. Apple ensure that the content within some closed apps is protected even after the iPhone is opened, users will need Apple authenticate with Face ID in order to access these locked apps. Additionally, it is expected that the feature will work with Touch ID and passcodes, providing flexibility for a range of device types and user preferences.

Additionally, the source states that this feature will soon be available for iPhone apps that are integrated. Whether this feature will apply to third-party apps downloaded from the App Store is still unknown.

At the moment, Apple permits passcodes, Face ID, or Touch ID to be used to lock down particular content within apps. Users can safeguard photographs in the “Recently Deleted” and “Hidden” albums within the photographs app, and they can lock notes in the Notes app. But iOS 18 will improve this feature by enabling full app locks, offering complete protection for user information.

As previously stated, tonight’s WWDC presentation is expected to see the release of iOS 18. Fans of Apple can watch the official livestream of the event on Apple’s YouTube channel and website to catch all the action. Start time for the keynote address is 10:30 p.m. IST.