Apple Introduces New Touch ID and Security Chip to MacBook

Apple Introduces New Touch ID and Security Chip to MacBook Air

Apple's new security chip now disables MacBook's microphone when the lid closes.

  • By Sydny Shepard
  • Nov 01, 2018

Apple is increasing the security of their devices with new features like biometric Touch ID and a new security chip embedded in the new MacBook Air introduced on Tuesday. 

The new MacBook Air was revealed at the Apple Event in New York, and now includes Apple's Touch ID sensor on the keyboard. The fingerprint sensor is used to unlock devices and was introduced in the iPhone 5s in September of 2015. The biometric security feature has proven to be a faster, more convenient alternative to passwords. 

The Touch ID feature does more than unlock the new MacBook Air, however. You can not use the biometric feature to shop using Apple Pay as well as authenticate third-party apps.

Your fingerprint data is encrypted and secured on Apple's T2 security chip, which uses Secure Enclave. All your data, including passwords and your fingerprint is stored on the device and doesn't leave the MacBook Air. The tech giant explained they don't even receive the data.

Apple's T2 chip will now also disable your MacBook's microphone when the lid is closed, according to its latest security overview. This change is hardware-based, which means no software (including malware from potential hackers) can turn on your microphone when the lid is shut.  

The T2 chip was first introduced this summer, and adds an extra layer of security for all of Apple's devices. Though security features are often embedded in the processors, more tech giants have been replying on standalone chips.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.