Buzz
Apple secured a major share in the supply chain and planned to unveil three different iPhone models this year, all featuring the Face ID facial recognition feature: iPhone X, 8, and 8 Plus.
Responding to Reuters, three companies expected to develop similar systems—Viavi Solutions Inc, Finisar Corp, and Ams AG—stated that although Face ID integration was anticipated in Android devices, it would take 12 months for this to become a reality. The first Android devices to use 3D camera sensors will hit the market in 2019, but only a few will have this capability, likely high-end devices like Samsung.
The design cost of Face ID is exceptionally high.
Bill Ong, Viavi's investor relations director, mentioned: 'Android device manufacturers will need a significant amount of time to ensure their supply chain capabilities. We will introduce potential handheld device manufacturers using 3D camera sensors on their devices by the end of this year. However, the number will be very low. By 2019, there will be at least 2 or more Android devices using this technology.'
According to Craig Thompson, Vice Director of New Market at Finisar: 'Customers will devise their own implementation and introduction plans. We hope the market opportunity for VCSEL technology will significantly increase in 2019.'
A recent report indicates that one of the primary reasons Android manufacturers struggle to incorporate 3D camera sensors is the high cost of these modules. Priced between $30 - $50 USD, only premium Android device manufacturers like Samsung can afford this technology.
If you own an iPhone X and haven't experienced the Face ID feature yet, refer to how to set up Face ID on iPhone X here, to secure your device.
In case Face ID isn't functioning on your iPhone, find out how to fix Face ID not working on iPhone X here.
