The new era imposes social distancing and strict use of masks in all spaces. But what happens with technology and specifically with facial recognition as a tool for unlocking smartphones?

The well-known Face ID, which the latest versions of Apple’s iPhone feature, is an advanced software technology which, using a TrueDepth camera, captures accurate face data by projecting and analyzing over 30,000 invisible dots. Thus, it creates a depth map and captures an infrared image of the face.

The technology of Face ID is so advanced that it can easily adapt to changes in the face, e.g. with the use of make-up or if a user grows a beard. But can it work when someone is wearing a mask?

During the coronavirus pandemic, many users searched for smart ways to unlock their phone with Face ID while wearing a protective mask. The solution came from the security company Xuanwu Lab, which, after a search in the iPhone settings, suggested to users to re-save their face in Face ID, with the difference that they should have half of their face covered with the mask.

If you want to try, you just have to follow the below steps:

Settings > Face ID & Password > Reset Face ID > Configure Face ID

At this stage use a mask folded in half and cover half of your face. Repeat the process for both sides of the face. The trick may not work on the first try, so you have to make a new attempt at recording the face. Once it is successfully completed, the message “The recording was successful” will appear. Now you can try to unlock your phone by wearing the mask!

Alternatively, at the first step, you can follow this path:

Settings > Face ID & Password > Set up an alternate appearance

The above procedure has worked positively for many users, but many have failed to “deceive” the Face ID. This may be due to the angle of capture or the type of mask they use.

In any case, the official resolution of the problem is being planned by Apple as the Face ID recognition with a mask is already in the company’s developer portal.