iOS 15.4 includes a new feature that will make it easier to use Face ID while wearing a face mask

Apple added a new feature in today's first iOS 15.4 developer beta that allows users to unlock their iPhone while wearing a face mask without having to authenticate with an Apple Watch .

Apple included a new "Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch" feature with iOS 14.5 last year that allowed an iPhone to detect whether or not a face covering was worn by the user. case, "Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch" will verify the user's face with the face mask as much as possible, then unlock the device based on whether the user is wearing an Apple Watch that has been password unlocked outmoded.

The feature made things easier for users who wear face masks, but didn't completely fix the problem.However, Apple is currently testing a new way to unlock iPhones when a full Face ID scan cannot be performed due to wearing a face covering.

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— Giles Field Tue Jul 27 06:20:25 +0000 2021

With iOS 15.4, Apple added a new toggle in the Settings app called "Use Face ID with a Mask." When enabled, this feature will "recognize unique features around the eye" for purposes authentication, requiring users to rescan their face for the feature to work.

Apple says the new feature is also available to users who wear glasses, noting that Face ID will recognize glasses worn by the user regularly, although sunglasses are not supported due to the functionality requiring the ability to see details around the eyes.

The new “Use Face ID with a mask” feature is available for iPhone 12 and above.