Today, Apple has seeded iOS 15.4 beta 1 to developers, adding a new feature to iPhones with Face ID technology. The new beta now allows users to use Face ID with a mask on. Even without the use of the Apple Watch for those who own one.
Apple states that Face ID can now “recognize the unique features around the eye to authenticate”. If you choose to use the feature, the software will demand you to re-scan your face to use Face ID again.
“Face ID is most accurate when it’s set up for full-face recognition only. To use Face ID while wearing a mask, iPhone can recognize the unique features around the eye to authenticate.”
To set the feature up, go to Settings, “Face ID & Passcode”, there is a new toggle named “Use Face ID with a Mask” that you turn on then the iPhone will demand you to re-scan your face.
There is also a new option to add called “Add Glasses” to improve Face ID recognition while wearing glasses and a mask at the same time, though the company says that the feature won’t support sunglasses:
“Using Face ID while wearing a mask works best when it’s set up to recognize each pair of glasses you wear regularly. Face ID with a mask doesn’t support sunglasses.”
This is not the first time Apple updated the Face ID system to work with masks. In August 2020 the company released iOS 14.5 that made Face ID work with masks by identifying it and unlocking the iPhone with the user’s Apple Watch.
The new Face ID update confirms a rumor from Jon Prosser that was published in August 2021 which indicated that the iPhone 13 lineup could handle masks and foggy glasses. Though it looks like the feature is not exclusive to iPhone 13 models.
