Apple on Thursday introduced a new MacBook Pro design for the first time in over four years. As rumored, the new models -- available in 13- and 15-inch sizes -- offer an all-new design, an OLED "Touch Bar" that replaces the function key row, and the Touch ID sensor borrowed from Apple's iPhone.
The Touch ID sensor is integrated into the power button. According to Apple, it allows for a quick, accurate reading of your fingerprint and uses algorithms to recognize and match it with Apple's Secure Enclave protection using a new Apple T1 chip in the laptops.
In early demos, the Mac's Touch ID seems to function identically to that of the iPhone, allowing secure Apple Pay payments online. Apple also demonstrated that the fingerprint sensor can be used to "hot swap" between multiple Mac users.
To demonstrate this, Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing, Phil Schiller, simply placed his finger on the sensor and it recognized him and switched to his desktop from that of Craig Federighi, Apple's head of software.
Federighi started the demo by showing how the Touch ID can also be used to unlock the new MacBook Pro. Just as it works on the iPhone, you rest your finger on the Touch ID sensor and you'll be logged into the laptop instantly.
Similar features were introduced earlier this year for current Mac users via MacOS Sierra. Using its MacID option, you can use the Touch ID sensor on an iPhone or iPad or the proximity sensor in an Apple Watch to unlock your Mac, switch profiles and use Apple Pay.
