How to Build a Standalone Touch ID Module for Mac

On Mac desktop computers, the Apple fingerprint scanner can be used to unlock the computer, sign in, sign in to apps, approve Apple Pay transactions, and make purchases in the App Store.

However, those who want to use the fingerprint scanner in everyday life must use a MacBook or Apple desktop in combination with the Magic Keyboard.On the other hand, everyone who has connected a third-party keyboard to a Mac mini, iMac, or Mac Studio will, as they say, be left behind.

For users who do not use the Magic Keyboard, Apple does not provide the benefits of the Touch ID fingerprint scanner.However, if you like to work with your hands, you can make it yourself.

Own block with Touch ID

A growing number of Mac users are opting to remove the fingerprint scanner from the Magic Keyboard and place it in their own 3D printed case next to their favorite third-party keyboard.

Project “Standalone Touch ID for Mac!” published on printables.comexplains exactly how it works.It comes with not only a video tutorial, but also the corresponding templates for printing on your own 3D printer.

All you need is an Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, access to a 3D printer, and a free day to detach the scanner module from the keyboard and place it on a carrier board in a small box.

That’s exactly what YouTube user Quinn Nelson, known as Snazzy Labs, did.The biggest difficulty for him was the removal of the sensor, including the logic board, which, unfortunately, is not complete without destroying the keyboard.

If interested, then a step-by-step guide available on GitHub.But note that it uses tools from iFixit.Craft day, broken keyboard, and you already have a standalone Touch ID scanner for your favorite keyboard.

But is it worth it?