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You can now use Face ID while wearing a mask – here’s how

It’s now available in iOS 15.4.
ios 15.4 face mask update
Image: KnowTechie

The last two years of mask-wearing has given Apple some hard choices to make with its Face ID recognition system. Now you can use it to unlock your iPhone, while still wearing your mask, and without needing to buy an Apple Watch.

Included in iOS 15.4, Apple has added a new section to the Face ID settings. When enabled, it “recognize[s] the unique features around the eye” to make Face ID work while you’re masked up.

That means no more entering your passcode, and no more needing to own an Apple Watch.

How to set up Face ID with a face mask

You’ll need to be on iOS 15.4 for this to work (here’s how to update your iPhone to iOS 15.4). You’ll also need to have an iPhone 12 or newer, as Face ID with a Mask seems limited to newer devices. The option doesn’t appear on our iPhone 11 Pro.

  1. Open the Settings appios settings app

  2. Scroll down to Face ID & Passcodeiphone face mask face id update how to

  3. Enter your passcode when asked

  4. Scroll down to Use Face ID With a Mask and toggle it oniphone face id mask toggle

  5. Follow the Face ID scanning promptsface mask face id ios 15.4

  6. Once completed, you will have Use Face ID With a Mask set up

That’s it, now your iPhone is all set to use Face ID while you’re wearing a mask. Apple does note that Face ID is “most accurate” when it’s set to full-face recognition.

Still, that’s the trade-off for not having to tap your passcode in to unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask.

The new feature is only available in iOS 15.4. You’ll need an iPhone 12 or newer, as earlier iPhone models don’t appear to be supported. The new feature also isn’t supported on any iPad models.

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