The iOS 14.5 update enables Face ID authentication even when wearing a mask by pairing with an Apple Watch

Apple is trying to fix one of Face ID’s biggest problems through the upcoming iOS 14.5 update, which is the “helpless” Face ID situation in front of people wearing masks.

Of course, facial authentication using the Face ID sensor was not too inconvenient until the Covid-19 epidemic broke out. Users are forced to wear masks in public, so using their faces for Face ID authentication is almost impossible, leading to an unpleasant experience when opening an iPhone.

In iOS 14.5, Apple added an option to authenticate and unlock the iPhone using Face ID if the user is paired with an Apple Watch.

After updating to iOS 14.5, if you unlock your iPhone with Face ID while wearing your Apple Watch and a mask, the Face ID sensor will partially scan and then use your Apple Watch to authenticate and unlock the iPhone.

After successfully unlocking, Apple Watch also emits a response sound. In addition to unlocking the device, users can also use the Apple Watch to lock the iPhone.

At least in iOS 14.5 beta, Apple is asking users to enable this option manually. However, users cannot use this unlock method to authenticate payments on Apple Pay or make purchases on the App Store, but are required to open a mask and use Face ID.

iOS 14.5 will be a pretty big update with a number of new features including 5G support in dual SIM mode, AirPlay 2 support on the Apple Fitness + app, support for Xbox and PS5 consoles or asking Siri to call. emergency services, …

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