Going Maskless

When Apple debuted Face ID for the iPhone, it was a wonderful idea and one wherein they thought the days of Touch ID were numbered. COVID completely derailed the reliability of something that worked so well. Apple, nor anyone for that matter, could've predicted constant mask-wearing. Now, finally, with iOS 15.4 Apple has created a system to work around it. Jose Adorno at 9To5Mac has more.

Just after you update your iPhone to iOS 15.4, a new prompt screen will appear explaining the new “Use Face ID with a mask” feature. Even though Apple actively gives users this new option, the company let its customers know that Face ID is most secure with full-face recognition only:

“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.”

9To5 Mac

As someone who wears an Apple Watch, I was very happy when Apple introduced an unlock mechanism to get into my iPhone whenever I had my watch on. It was the first step in a workaround to Face ID. It doesn't always work 100% of the time, but it was a good first step. Now, with iOS 15.4, anyone can finally get into their phones regardless of if they wear a watch or not.

It may have taken way too long for this feature to arrive, but at least it's here.