Apple's new Magic Keyboard with Touch ID can now be purchased separately and works with any M1 Mac computer. This is great news for new Apple fans and should make life a bit easier for anyone that needs to authenticate throughout the day. There are some details to be aware of in terms of compatibility and options before buying.
Apple launched its new M1 iMac in May of 2021, the first major redesign in nine years. The M1 processor, which is based on the A14 chip that powers the iPad Air 4, allows this desktop computer to have an appearance more similar to a tablet than an all-in-one computer. Measuring just under 12 millimeters thick, it's a beautiful design and Apple celebrated with a full rainbow of seven colors to choose from. The color chosen carries through to the keyboard and mouse. The keyboard bundled with the iMac is the first to contain Apple's Touch ID technology in an external keyboard.
The new Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, once available only with the purchase of an iMac, is now available on Apple's website. This wireless keyboard will work with any Mac that has Bluetooth or an available USB-C connector, but it's important to note that the Touch ID feature only works with Mac computers that contain an Apple Silicon chip, which currently means it must have an M1 processor. Apple offers two choices with the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, one with 78 keys and a larger 109 key model that includes a numeric keypad. Those hoping for color choices when purchasing the keyboard by itself might be disappointed to learn only one color is currently available, the standard silver with white keys.
For anyone using a desktop Mac mini or anticipating purchasing a future Apple Silicon Mac computer, the model with 109 keys might make the most sense, making data entry much faster, adding some text editing buttons, and shifting the arrow keys off to the right preventing accidental taps. For only $30 more at $179, it is a solid and reliable keyboard that can provide the unique advantages of Touch ID to desktop Macs, something once found only on a MacBook.
For those needing a slimmer, more portable solution, the 78 key Magic Keyboard with Touch ID costs $149 and has a layout that's nearly identical to the built-in keyboard with the MacBook Air. When compared to the MacBook Pro keyboard, it differs in the Touch Bar area, of course, since the external keyboard has physical function keys. Both models support wireless Bluetooth connections and include a USB-C cable for charging. After setting up Touch ID with the owner's fingerprint, it makes a super fast and easy way to unlock a Mac, authenticate purchases, and log in to websites and other accounts. The Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is likely the most convenient external keyboard available for Apple Silicon Mac computers and worth the somewhat high cost.
Source: Apple
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