This article discusses a new beta option in iOS that lets you unlock an iPhone with Face ID and an Apple Watch, even if you’re wearing a face mask. Read on to learn how it works.
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Apple introduced its Face ID face recognition system in November 2017 with the launch of the iPhone X, which offers users an even simpler way to unlock their smartphone than traditional fingerprint recognition.
However, following the use of face masks currently in use, Apple’s biometric feature has been disabled, forcing many users to enter their passcode to unlock their device in public spaces.
Fortunately, Apple has responded to this change in our daily lives by introducing a new feature that allows iPhone users wearing an Apple Watch to unlock their smartphone via Face ID through a partial face scan while wearing a mask.
The process is similar to how it works if you unlock a Mac with an Apple Watch. When the unlock occurs, the user receives a haptic buzz and a notification on the Apple Watch informing them that the unlocking procedure was successful. However, keep in mind that you can only use your Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask – it cannot be used to verify Apple Pay or App Store purchases.
Before you can take advantage of the new feature, be sure to use a developer beta or the public beta of iOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4. You need the iPhone and Apple Watch profiles from Apple’s beta test site, and after installing them, you can update to iPhone update by going to Settings -> General -> Software Update. To update your Apple Watch, install iOS 14.5 and then launch the Look app on your iPhone, tap on the My watch at the bottom of the screen and then select General -> Software Update.
What you need
- IPhone X or later with Face ID
- Apple Watch Series 3 or later
- iOS 14.5 or later installed on iPhone
- watchOS 7.4 or later installed on Apple Watch
The iOS 14.5 and watchOS 7.4 updates are currently available for both public beta testers and developers, with a public release expected this spring.
How to set up an iPhone with Apple Watch
- Start the Institutions app on your iPhone.
- Choose Face ID and password.
- Enter the codeiPhone password.
- Scroll down to the section labeled “Unlock with Apple Watch” and switch the switch next to it Apple Watch to the green ON position. (If the option is grayed out, you need to update the version of watchOS on your Apple Watch.)
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How to unlock your iPhone with Apple Watch
To use your Apple Watch to unlock your iPhone, your watch must be close, on your wrist, unlocked and protected by a passcode. If you have not set a passcode yet, the Look app on your iPhone, select Password -> Enable password, then enter the passcode you want to use (you must do this twice to confirm.)
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The first time you try to unlock your iPhone with Apple Watch when wearing a mask, you’ll ask your iPhone to enter your passcode. After doing so, all subsequent attempts to unlock your iPhone wanneer when wearing a mask will be quick and seamless, with each successful unlock accompanied by a brief haptic buzz on your wrist. You will need to re-enter your passcode when you remove your watch and set it for the first time each day.