Apple to introduce third-party keyboard and Touch ID support with iOS 8


Apple has announced it will allow third-party keyboard and Touch ID support with iOS 8 for developers.


Developers will be able to adapt third-party keyboards, including Swype, for iPhones with iOS 8.


This is the first time Apple has allowed developers to do so, adding an additional Android feature to iOS devices.


As a user you’ll be able to install default keyboards across your iOS 8 device, which will be very handy if you’re looking to switch from Android to iOS with ease.


Just like the eBay partnership with the fingerprint sensor of the Samsung Galaxy S5, Apple is opening up its Touch ID technology to developers.


The Touch ID APIs will protect log-ins and user data even with third-party apps, and will even unlock Keychain items. Apple also added that it will protect your fingerprint data and your digits will be able to lock content found within personal apps.


Also, iOS 8 developers will be able to create Notification Centre widgets for their third-party apps. From the looks of it, the widgets will only be available inside the Notification Centre, but these are active and interactive.


Apple outlines that you’ll be able to enter eBay bids within Notification Centre for example.


These seem to work a little similar to Chrome extensions, and widgets inside Safari will allow in-line translation – definitely a handy feature.


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