Apple files for "Image-Based Authentication" patent

Apple has applied for a patent on the use of images to authenticate a Mac or iDevice user.

The patent application, dubbed "Image-Based Authentication," describes a method by which an image of some sort would be displayed on a Mac or iDevice screen. Aside from that image, options will be displayed asking users to correctly identify what it is. If they answer correctly, they'll be able to access the respective device. An incorrect answer keeps it locked.

According to Patently Apple, which was first to report on the patent application, Apple's filing includes an image showing a person's face. Under that image is a list of names. The user would have to correctly identify which person's face it is in order to unlock the device.