Apple dropped its third major update for iOS 8 yesterday, and along with racially diverse emoji, two-factor authentication for Google and new Siri languages came another altogether unwelcome addition: a fault that is stopping Touch ID from working for many users.
Sadly, this is the kind of thing that is becoming a more regular occurrence for Apple. Despite exciting new hardware developments like the Apple Watch, the company has been getting increasingly sloppy with software updates — with routine and sometimes crucial functionality taking a hit on what feels like a regular basis.
The problems with Touch ID have been reported on Reddit and in a thread on the Apple Support Communities. The majority of users complaining are saying that, while unlocking works fine, their ability to buy apps in the App Store is compromised.
The fault is reported as existing for multiple handsets, including both iPhone 6 and 6 Plus handsets.
“I tried everything,” writes one user. “Really not pleased with it. After messing about in settings I accidentally bought 2 apps that I didn’t want to buy, nor needed, just because it didn’t ask for password before download. Thanks Apple. FIX IT!! I need touch ID to confirm a purchase, without going through the hassle of typing the password. Amazingly touch ID still works on Amazon. So this is [an] Apple problem.”
As noted, this isn’t the first time an iOS 8 update has had a detrimental effect on Touch ID. The disastrous 8.0.1 update was quickly pulled after upgraders discovered that it created problems for both Touch ID and cellular connectivity — essentially bricking many people’s new iPhones until Apple came out with a fix.
Come on, Apple, get it together!
