Apple's next iOS update might let users unlock their iPhones with Face ID even while wearing a mask
Since newer iPhone models don't have a fingerprint scanner, users wearing face masks are left with no choice but to type in their passcodes to unlock their phones, unless they have an Apple Watch.
But it looks like Apple is finally working on a solution: DailyiFix founder Brandon Butch and MacRumors have found a new feature on iOS 15.4 beta that lets users unlock their iPhones with Face ID even with a mask on.
Well this is new ? (iOS 15.4 Beta 1) pic.twitter.com/MSe7hmPGlR
— Brandon Butch (@BrandonButch) January 27, 2022
The feature's screen says it can "recognize the unique features around the eye area" to make sure it's you who's trying to open the iPhone. However, it warns that Face ID is most accurate for full-face recognition.
There's also an option to "Add Glasses" to make Face ID with a mask more accurate for those wearing frames in addition to the face mask.
Not only can you set up Face ID to be used with a mask, but also with glasses!
(iOS 15.4 Beta 1) pic.twitter.com/HGRFwR5SaB— Brandon Butch (@BrandonButch) January 27, 2022
The feature won't also work for all iPhones with Face ID, as 9to5Mac reports. Users with any model in the iPhone 12 and 13 lines will only be able to utilize it.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Apple users have been clamoring for a way to unlock their iPhones with their masks on. Currently, users with an Apple Watch can access their phones with a face mask using the smartwatch's Face ID. The Verge, however, notes that this feature opens the iPhone for anyone as long as they are wearing a mask and they have the Watch near to the iPhone.
