The news: The GM release of iOS 13.5–which seems to be launching imminently–includes the official changelog for the first ever x.5 update. Here’s what’s new:
- Face ID jumps straight to the passcode prompt if you’re wearing a mask
- Exposure notifications, which are opt-in, allow you to notify others or be notified if you have COVID-19 or have been exposed to the virus
- Group FaceTime’s dynamically sized tiles can be disabled
- Also opt-in, you can automatically send your Medical ID to emergency services when dialing 911
Our take: Apple and Google’s contact tracking partnership is monumental and a sign of times that no one can recognize as normal. I can’t wait to see how it helps track the spread of COVID-19 and does genuine good. Plus, the new Face ID auto-passcode mask stuff is super helpful.
