How To: Set up facial recognition on a Samsung Galaxy phone

Many of the new smartphones now on the market no longer offer fingerprint recognition, instead tending to use facial recognition to unlock the screen. So far, however, Samsung Galaxy phones come equipped with both options for accessing the device.

It is worth noting that facial recognition technology differs between Android and iOS devices, as iPhones feature Face ID, which uses multiple sensors to detect faces. Facial recognition on Android, on the other hand, works by storing a photograph of the user's face.

Setting up facial recognition

The first step is to swipe down from the top of the screen, tap the cog icon and go to “Biometrics and security”. When you select “Face recognition”, if a security method such as a PIN or an unlock pattern is enabled, you will be prompted to enter it to verify your identity.

You will then see some introductory information about facial recognition. Tap “Continue” to proceed with the setup.

The first question asks whether you wear glasses. Select “Yes” or “No” as appropriate and tap “Continue”. You will then need to register your face by holding your phone's camera at face level. Once your face has been scanned, you can choose to require a swipe on the lock screen even after your face has been recognised. This ensures that your device will not go straight past the lock screen unless you want it to. Enable or disable this option, then tap “Done” to complete the process.

There is also an “Add alternative appearance” option, which lets you scan your face again. You can also enable other options on the “Face recognition” page:

Faster recognition: This speeds up the unlocking process, but it can be “fooled” more easily.

Require open eyes: Requiring your eyes to be open before the device unlocks adds an extra layer of security.

Brighten screen: In low light, the screen will automatically brighten so that your face can be scanned.

When the padlock icon at the top of the lock screen changes to unlocked, you will know that your face has been successfully recognised.

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