iOS 13.5 will be released soon. Few software upgrades are as important as this one.

What makes iOS 13.5 so exciting is that it features an updated version of the Face ID biometric unlock process that recognizes that you are wearing a face mask (you wear a mask in public, right?).

That iOS 13.5 will be released soon, because today (May 18) Apple released the Gold Master build of this software, along with new versions of all operating systems (iPadOS 13.5, watchOS 6.2.5, tvOS 13.4.5) 9to5Mac and others are reporting this release. When a GM version of Apple's software is released, it's a signal for the bats to get ready for public release.

As I found out when I downloaded the beta version of iOS 13.5, the iPhone now recognizes that I am wearing a face mask and stops trying to log in with Face ID. Then, a quick swipe up from the bottom of the screen opens the passcode login field, reducing the time it takes to access grocery store listings and perform other important tasks on the go.

In short, tonight is the perfect night to make sure your iPhone is backed up and all your data is safe and sound. Every time you do a software update, there is a risk of something going wrong (be it something small or big); just ask any Windows 10 user, and they'll tell you that every time they do a software update, it's a good thing.

If you don't want to wait for the public version, check out these handy steps to put your iPhone on the public beta release schedule and get the GM version now.