The iPhone 12 does not feature Touch ID; it utilizes Face ID for biometric authentication. While Touch ID is available on certain compatible iPhone models (typically those with a Home button, such as the iPhone SE), the iPhone 12 relies solely on its advanced TrueDepth camera system for facial recognition.
iPhone 12's Biometric Security: Face ID
Instead of a fingerprint scanner (Touch ID), the iPhone 12 incorporates Face ID, Apple's secure facial recognition technology. This system allows you to:
- Unlock your iPhone by simply looking at it.
- Authenticate purchases from the App Store, iTunes Store, and Apple Books.
- Authorize Apple Pay transactions.
- Sign into apps that support Face ID.
Face ID works by projecting and analyzing thousands of invisible dots to create a precise depth map of your face, which is then converted into a mathematical representation. This data is encrypted and stored in the Secure Enclave, a dedicated hardware security architecture within the A14 Bionic chip, making it highly secure.
Understanding Touch ID on Compatible iPhones
While the iPhone 12 does not support it, Touch ID remains a primary security feature on other iPhone models. Touch ID uses your fingerprint to securely unlock your device and authorize purchases.
Setting Up Touch ID (for Compatible iPhones)
To set up and use Touch ID on a compatible iPhone, follow these steps:
- Access Settings: Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Navigate to Touch ID & Passcode: Scroll down and tap on Touch ID & Passcode. You may be prompted to enter your device passcode.
- Add a Fingerprint: Tap on Add a Fingerprint.
- Scan Your Fingerprint:
- Place your finger on the Home button (which houses the Touch ID sensor) without pressing it down.
- Press and lift your finger on the Home button several times while holding the iPhone.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to adjust your grip and scan different parts of your finger until the entire fingerprint is captured.
- Complete Setup: Once your fingerprint is successfully registered, you can choose which features to enable Touch ID for, such as iPhone Unlock, Apple Pay, and iTunes & App Store.
Using Touch ID
Once set up, you can use Touch ID for various functions on compatible devices:
- Unlocking your iPhone: Simply place your registered finger on the Home button.
- Making Purchases: When prompted for authentication (e.g., in the App Store or for Apple Pay), place your registered finger on the Home button.
Touch ID vs. Face ID: A Quick Comparison
While both are biometric security features, they differ in their implementation and availability across iPhone models.
| Feature | Touch ID (Compatible iPhones) | Face ID (iPhone 12 & Newer) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Fingerprint Recognition | Facial Recognition |
| Hardware | Home Button with Integrated Sensor | TrueDepth Camera System (Front Notched Area) |
| Key Use | Unlock device, Apple Pay, App Store, Passwords | Unlock device, Apple Pay, App Store, Passwords |
| iPhone 12 | Not Available | Available |
| Benefit | Convenient with masks (pre-iOS 15.4) | Highly secure, works in various lighting conditions |
In conclusion, while the steps provided from the reference are accurate for setting up Touch ID on compatible iPhones, the iPhone 12 does not support this feature. Instead, iPhone 12 users will rely on Face ID for all their biometric security needs.
