Life

Apple Releases iOS 13.5 With COVID-19-Related Updates

The update makes it easier for users to unlock their iPhones when wearing a protective mask and contains other new features.

iPhone
Image via Getty/Noel Celis/AFP
Getty

Apple has finally rolled out the public version of iOS 13.5, offering a number of improvements, bug fixes, and a couple of coronavirus-related features.

One of the most notable updates is the revamped facial recognition system, which now makes it easier to unlock your iPhone or iPad while wearing a protective face mask. With the previous system, the Face ID would make multiple attempts to recognize a user's partially concealed face before giving the option to enter the passcode. The new update is a time-saver for those mask-wearing individuals, as they're able to swipe up once from the bottom of the screen to automatically get the PIN option.

Apple confirmed this feature also works when authentication is required for apps like Apple Books, Apple Pay, and iTunes.

iOS 13.5 also introduces Apple and Google's Exposure Notification API setting, a collaborative feature that aims to help public health agencies combat the spread of coronavirus. To use this feature, a third-party contact-tracing app must be downloaded to the device; once installed, the user will be notified if they have come into contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with the disease.

Per Google's blog:

Related Stories

wwdc ios 13
Life

New iOS 13 Features: Robo-Call Blocking, Dark Mode, Improved Battery Charging, and More

iPhone users can expect a slew of new and updated features for their smartphones when the new mobile operating system launches.

Kyle Shokeye2606 days ago
Apple
Life

People Can't Get Enough of This iPhone Flip Concept Video

This fan-made design has the potential to give Samsung and Motorola a run for their money.

Joshua Espinoza2270 days ago
The iPhone SE.
Life

Everything You Need to Know About Apple's New Budget iPhone SE

The new phone's affordable price is well-timed.

Gavin Evans2300 days ago

Users can access the feature by going to Settings > Privacy > Health > COVID-19 Exposure Logging.

Another notable update gives users the option to disable the automatic zooming feature in a Group FaceTime.

To install the Apple's latest operating system on your device, go to to Settings > General > Software Update and then tap "Download and Install" at the bottom.

Stay ahead on Exclusives

Download the Complex App