If there’s one thing the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, it’s that wearing a mask is very important. However, in a world full of fingerprint sensors on phones, it’s easy to see how iPhone users are disappointed with Face ID alone. The lack of a fingerprint sensor on your phone can be a big caveat considering you can’t remove your mask whenever you want. Fortunately, you can now unlock your iPhone even with a mask on. So if you’re part of iPhone users who are tired of entering your passcode over and over, you’ve come to the right place. Read on as I show you how to use Face ID with a mask on your iPhone right now.
How to Unlock iPhone Using Face ID With Mask On (No Apple Watch Required)
There are many useful features in iOS 15, but this last one is definitely one of my favourites. While I’ll show you how to unlock your iPhone’s Face ID with a mask, I’ll also talk about how it actually works. However, if you prefer to jump into the process itself, use the table below to do so.
How Does Face ID Mask Unlock Work?
While it’s confusing to understand how Face ID can work without a user showing their full face, Apple has provided a simple explanation. The company states that the Face ID mask is unlocked “recognizes unique features around the eyes to confirm identity” and use this data to unlock your iPhone. Masked unlock uses essentially the same technology as Face ID, but focuses on your upper face to map a unique profile. This profile is used later when you try to unlock your iPhone using Face ID. Apple also stated that you have to look at your phone while wearing a mask to unlock it, so keep that in mind once you set it up.
Requirements to Unlock Face ID Mask
While Face ID is easy enough to set up with the mask on, there are certain requirements you must meet before continuing to use it. Take a look at the list below and make sure you have every item before continuing.
1. iOS 15.4 Beta
The latest iOS 15.4 beta released recently is the version that adds the ability to unlock your iPhone’s Face ID with a mask. you will need 15.4 beta and install it for Mask Unlock to appear on your iPhone. If you don’t have a developer account, you can always learn how to download and install the iOS 15 beta without it. Make sure you have a backup of your iPhone first, and then come back here when you upgrade to iOS 15.4 beta.
Note: Beta software is often problematic and can break your iPhone’s functionality. You should only use beta versions of iOS on an iPhone that you don’t use as a daily driver. Proceed at your own risk.
2. iPhone 12 or 13 Series
Currently, the Face ID mask unlock feature only works on the iPhone 12 and 13 Series. If you are a user with these devices, go ahead and read on. Users on older models should wait for future updates before doing anything.
3. Back Up Your iPhone Before Proceeding
As with beta software, there is always the possibility that something will go wrong and your data will be corrupted. Be sure to back up your iPhone using Finder or iTunes before continuing to install anything.
4. A Reasonably Charged iPhone
It goes without saying that installing the latest iOS beta and then using it will free up your iPhone a bit. Make sure your phone has enough charge so that it doesn’t turn off during Face ID mask setup.
How to Use Face ID with Mask?
Note: You will not need to wear a mask during Face ID setup.
Is everything in order? Let’s start using Face ID with a mask. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap on it. Face ID and Password and then enter your code to continue.
3. Scroll down and tap on it. Use Face ID with Mask Pass.
4. Read the information and tap . Use Face ID with Mask.
5. Now you will need to set up your Face ID. Tap on To start to start.
5. Move your head slowly to complete the circle to complete the action.
6. Press Done and you’re ready.
And that’s it! You can now unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask. Look at your phone as you would with regular Face ID and it will open.
My Experience with Face ID Mask Unlock
Personally, I like the ability to unlock my iPhone while wearing a mask. Unlocking accuracy is flawless and works without delay. Apple could certainly offer this feature sooner, but I’m not one to plan to unmask it anytime soon, so I’d welcome it anyway. Go ahead and use Face ID with a mask on your iPhone and tell me how this worked for you.
Unlock with Face ID Mask
I hope your life has become much easier by unlocking your iPhone with a mask. If you’ve just installed the beta and you’re experiencing pink screen issues on your iPhone 13, here’s how to fix it. Don’t like Siri and want to make your life easier? Learn how to turn off Siri on your iPhone and iPad here. If you absolutely do not need this feature right now, you should wait for the iOS 15.4 stable version to be released for your iPhone instead of installing beta software on your primary device.