With masks becoming a commonplace tool to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus, some iPhone owners are finding their once-useful Face ID function mostly useless.

Apple is changing that. In the latest beta release of iOS 13.5, multiple developers said a new Face ID feature makes it easier to unlock the iPhone without having to take off a mask.

In the new version of iOS, Face ID will recognize when someone is wearing a mask, and the iPhone will pull up the pass code entry screen after swiping up from the bottom of the screen — no more constant searching for your face. The Face ID tool still won’t unlock your iPhone unless you take off your mask, but it will make the switch to the pass code-unlock option significantly faster.

It’s unclear when the fix will be rolled out, but it could be within weeks if other iOS updates are a clue.

The upcoming iOS update is also loaded with new software that app developers can use to help iPhone users be notified if they’ve come in contact with a person having COVID-19. It’s a joint project with Google that will help track the spread of the virus using Bluetooth technology.

The companies will first release interfaces built on existing public health apps in May.(SD-Agencies)