Apple is testing a feature that will let users use Face ID to unlock the iPhone even when the users are wearing a mask. Apple has rolled out the first developer beta releases of iOS 15.4, iPadOS 15.4, and macOS Monterey 12.3.
Apple has added a new feature to allow Face ID to be used with a mask in the iOS 15.4 beta update. In addition, users don’t need to connect to the Apple Watch for authentication.
According to Apple, Face ID is most accurate when set up to undertake full-face recognition only. However, the iPhone could recognize unique features around the user’s eye to authenticate Face ID while wearing a mask.
Apple stated in a statement that the feature could recognize the unique features around the eye for authentication purposes allowing users to unlock the handsets even while the users are carrying a mask on the face.
Users need to rescan their face for Face ID to use the new feature during setup. However, once the user completes the setup process, the Face ID will unlock iPhone handsets even when the users are wearing a mask. Users need to go to the Settings app to use the new feature.
A new “Use Face ID with a Mask” option will be turned on or off if users change their minds regarding the mask.
To use it with glasses, users need a new feature to “Add Glasses” to make Face ID more accurate when you’re wearing glasses and a mask simultaneously.
Face ID with a mask can also authenticate Apple Pay payments, and it can be used given a login and password in applications that support Face ID.
The feature can be enabled after booting with iOS 15.4 by toggling on the option ‘Use Face ID With a Mask’ available under Settings > Face ID and Passcode.
According to a report, it looks like the Face ID with a mask feature requires an iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 variant as the feature is not available for users who have the iPhone 11 at this time.