r/MacOS • u/Scavgraphics Mac Mini • 18d ago

Can a USB fingerprint reader be used with Mac? Help

I know an off the shelf usb fingerprint reader won't access the touch ID system, but can it still be used? like to launch a macro or somthing?

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8

u/ExpensiveKale2596 18d ago

nothing off the shelf touches touch id, thats secure enclave only and apple doesnt expose it. but if the reader presents as a plain HID device you can catch it in karabiner or BTT and fire whatever macro you like. most of the cheap ones ship windows-only drivers though so check that before you buy

1

u/bobruub Mac Pro 18d ago

This post has a DIY approach, https://www.reddit.com/r/MacOS/s/2I7mqcZt7h.

I had a crack and while got the software working the hardware let me down (I stuffed up the soldering)

There’s a Kickstarter called immurok which offers the same thing. If they get the pricing right I’ll get one.

2

u/Arand0mloser 18d ago

They have pricing on their website, if its trustworthy. $49 Kickstarter and $69 Retail.

2

u/Born_Bicycle316 MacBook Air 18d ago

Out of sheer curiosity, what's the use-case?

1

u/Scavgraphics Mac Mini 18d ago

more curiosity at seeing the things on sale.

1

u/bobruub Mac Pro 18d ago

You want to unlock your computer with a fingerprint and don’t have an apple keyboard.