Apple's introduction of notches in MacBook Pro seems to mean that FaceID is about to be launched, but it has not yet appeared. But it's clear that Apple is still considering using FaceID in MacBook Pro and iMac, and possibly in monitors and all-in-one products.
Apple files for hundreds of patents every month, so a patent filed in August 2023 titled "Light Recognition Module for Determining the User of a Computing Device" may or may not be approved. Moreover, installing FaceID on MacBook Pro is nothing new.
Much of the patent is a repetitive introduction to how TouchID works. Still, there are some interesting tidbits in Apple's latest patent.
FaceID in MacBook is obvious. After all, the notch is there, and starting with iPhoneX, the circuitry is inside the notch.
What's less obvious is that Apple has thought about how to handle the different angles the laptop screen opens up.
The patent text states that the device is "capable of rotating the optical pattern recognition module along its axis." This is the patented language of "hinge".
This hinge mechanism changes the angle of the dot projector and FaceID sensor behind the notch. In this way, the angle of incidence of light on the user's face remains consistent regardless of the operating angle of the display.
Apple has likely been working on this possibility for some time. While the patent images are crude, it's clear that the MacBook Pro in the illustration is equipped with a TouchBar rather than an upper row of function keys.
The techniques described also work with iMacs or monitors. According to illustrations in the patent, the iMac also has a built-in hinge.
Thanks to the built-in hinge, this technology can transcend the iMac's fixed verticality. The ProDisplayXDR's stand can also elevate the display, so it's possible Apple could consider using it for an adjustable display as well.
The patent is attributed to prolific inventor Paul X. Wang, who also invented a keyboard that pops out a key to be used as a mouse. Adam T. Garelli is another big name associated with the patent application. He holds a patent for designing an iMac with a single piece of glass.
The above two people worked with the normal team composed of Antonio Clarke, DineshCMathew, Joshua Daigle and others to complete this patent.
The publication number of this patent is US2024/00362338. Its application date and publication date are very short. The application date is October 10, 2023, and the publication date is February 1, 2024. It is a continuation of a patent dating back to 2019.