Face ID is intended to allow you to unlock your iPhone quickly and easily. However, if you've ever tried to unlock your iPhone while wearing a face mask, you know how difficult it is.
Thankfully, the new iOS 15.4 software update includes a new function that allows Face ID to recognize you even if you're wearing a mask. Only iPhone 12 and 13 models, including the iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max, have this capability.
Here's how to set up Face ID so that your mask is recognized.
How to Set Up Face ID with a Mask
First, ensure that your iPhone has been updated to iOS 15.4. This is the update with new Face ID features.
When you turn on your phone after installing the update, it may offer you the option to immediately set up your new Face ID. However, if it does not:
1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone and select the Face ID & Passcode option. You'll also need to enter your passcode.
2. Toggle the Use Face ID With a Mask switch to the on position, then press Use Face ID With a Mask.
3. Scanning your face with the iPhone is similar to scanning your face when you first set up Face ID, and you don't need to wear a mask because it's largely scanning your eyes.
Return to the Face ID & Passcode page and press Add Glasses if you also wear glasses. This will also save the appearance of your glasses, allowing you to unlock your iPhone while wearing both them and a mask. If you don't scan each pair of glasses you plan on wearing ahead of time, Face ID won't recognize them.
How to Use Apple Watch to Unlock your iPhone
If you don't have iOS 15.4 or an iPhone 12 or 13, you may still use your Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone with a mask on. You must be using iOS 14.5 or later, as well as WatchOS 7.4 or later, for this to operate. To activate the feature, follow these steps:
1. On your iPhone, launch the Settings app.
2. Enter your passcode after selecting Face ID & Passcode.
3. Scroll down to Unlock with Apple Watch, locate your Apple Watch, and enable the option.
When you're wearing a face mask, all you have to do to unlock your phone with Face ID is hold it up like you usually would, and you'll get a haptic touch on your wrist, indicating that your watch was used to unlock your phone.
