As Apple adds the Touch ID sensor to its new devices, word on the street is that the new technology will expand to cover not only the iPad and the iPhone, but the MacBook and Macs as well.
According to the blog apple.club.tw (via CultofMac), the security and convenience feature could be coming to the Mac. The blog reports that Apple has plans to bring load the upcoming 12-inch MacBook Air and next-gen MacBook Pro with Touch ID as the Cupertino-based firm has big plans for the sensor technology this year.
The site claims that the Touch ID will be integrated to the devices through the trackpad of the new line of MacBook Air and Pros. For iMac users, Apple will be incorporating the Touch ID in the Apple Magic Mouse.
Some have argued that the MacBook, especially the 12-inch, may not have enough space. Noting that nothing has been officially confirmed by Apple, recalling an earlier report by Redmond Pie, Synaptics revealed that it's working on a touchpad with a fingerprint sensor built in, called the "SecurePad."
The site notes that it's very possible Apple could be developing something along those lines.
Apple Pay Technolgy
One of the driving factors for the Touch ID integration, per the blog, is Apple's eagerness to boost Apply Pay functionality. Presently, Apple Pay is only available for in-store transactions, via NFC or if iOS apps accept the payment as part of its checkout process.
Apple Insider assessed that the upgrade in technology would pit Apple Pay in direct competition with larger online payment facilities like PayPal and Amazon Payments.
"PayPal, currently an eBay subsidiary, is preparing to separate from the online auction giant in part to streamline operations as it gears up to battle with Apple and Google in the digital wallet space," continued the online publication.
New Colors Coming
More than the Touch ID claims of the Apple.Club, it goes on to allege that there's a possibility of another color option for the much-awaited 12-inch MacBook Air and other upcoming MacBook Pros. Similar to the color scheme in the iPhone, the new MacBooks will now come with three color options -- silver, gold and space gray.
Apple is expected to release a new model of the MacBook Air, one that measures 12-inches. Rumors indicate that the new MacBook will come with Retina display along with an even slimmer frame that one one currently on the devices.
The 12-inch Retina MacBook Air is expected to launch sometime in the mid-year.
Stay tuned for more information!
