Apple is reportedly testing a feature that will allow users to unlock their phones using Face ID while wearing a mask.
According to MacRumors, the iOS 15.4 beta includes a new feature that allows Face ID to be used for authentication with a mask and without an Apple Watch.
According to the tech behemoth, the feature can “recognise the unique features around the eye” for authentication purposes.
If you select this option during setup, you will have to rescan your face for Face ID. Face ID will then be able to unlock your iPhone even if you’re wearing a mask.
There’s a new “Use Face ID with a Mask” toggle in the Settings app that can be turned on or off if you change your mind about wearing the mask, as well as a new “Add Glasses” feature to make Face ID more accurate when you’re wearing glasses and a mask at the same time.
In the Settings app, Apple warns that Face ID is “most accurate” when set to full-face recognition only. Face ID with a mask requires you to look at your device to unlock it, and it does not work when you are wearing sunglasses.
Unlike the previous Apple Watch Face ID feature, Face ID with a mask can authenticate Apple Pay payments and be used in place of a login and password in apps that support Face ID.
According to the report, the Face ID with a mask feature appears to require an iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 model, as the feature is currently unavailable to iPhone 11 users.
