Apple Inc. is using Touch ID on just about every new device it launches and allows developers to integrate Touch ID with third-party apps. It is only a matter of time then before Touch ID becomes a feature on Macs through native integration –an idea that is further supported by the new Continuity feature that allows iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite to work together like a dream. No doubt this is very high up on every Mac user’s Christmas wish list, but until Apple comes to the party, they will have to make do with a third-party solution such as FingerKey for iPhone.

FingerKey is a new app that lets Mac users unlock their desktop using Touch ID. To use the app, which costs just $1.99 on the iOS App Store, you need an iPhone with Touch ID such as the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 or the iPhone 6 Plus, a companion app called FingerLock (free on the developers site) installed on your Mac, and a Mac with Bluetooth-LE capability. It is recommended users check if their Mac indeed supports Bluetooth-LE before purchasing the app.

FingerKey lets you unlock your Mac without having to type your password every time and securely stores and exchanges your password between devices using AES 256 bits encryption. The app also lets you unlock multiple computers from a distance and offers a Notification Center Widget for quick access –so  you don’t have to launch the app every time.

At the time of writing, the following notice appeared on the App Store:

“Apparently there’s an issue with iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus causing connection difficulties. If you have already purchased FingerKey, please be patient, an update is on the way to correct this.”

According to the developer, Windows and Linux support is coming soon, along with pattern unlock, such as ‘draw a password’ or ‘connect the dots’. This will allow the app to work with non-Touch ID devices –good news for owners of older model iPhones.

The developer published this short video showing FingerKey in action:

photo credit: Janitors via photopin cc