iOS
Unlock iPhone despite mask: Apple brings new function with iOS update
Not all Apple iPhone users will be able to use the new feature
© Twitter / Brandon Butch / Screenshot
With the current iOS beta version from Apple, a feature long missed by many iPhone users could come that promises added value, especially in Corona times.
Apple appears to be testing a feature that would allow cellphones to be unlocked using facial recognition, known as Face ID, even when wearing a face mask. The developer version of the upcoming operating system iOS 15.4 has a screen that asks if you want to use Face ID while wearing a mask, as reported by the portal “The Verge”.
iPhone: New feature not available for all Apple devices
According to screenshots of the new function, the iPhone should be able to recognize the “unique features around the eye area” in order to clearly identify the user. However, Apple points out that full face recognition is still more accurate. The screenshots were initially distributed by Youtuber and Apple expert Brandon Butch.
However, not all Apple iPhone users will be able to use the new feature. According to the specialist portal “9to5Mac”, it will only work for iPhone 12 and 13. The attempt to use it on an iPad Pro from 2018 also failed.
Typing is safer
Since the beginning of the corona pandemic, there has been a wish from many Apple customers that people can unlock iPhones while still wearing masks. Apple has already introduced various updates to get closer to this wish. iOS 13.5 would detect that you’re wearing a mask and ask for a key-in code instead of trying to authenticate your face.
Version 14.5 allows iPhone users to unlock their device with an Apple Watch worn side by side when wearing a mask. However, according to The Verge, it appears that this will unlock the phones for anyone wearing a mask, as long as the Apple Watch is close enough to the phone. Apple itself has not yet responded to The Verge’s request for comment on the feature.