Fortunately, Apple fixes this problem with the iOS 15.4 update. The latest iOS 15.4 update allows users to unlock their iPhone with Face ID while wearing a mask. It also gives you the option to register your face with a pair of glasses to make it easier to unlock your iPhone.
If you find it difficult to manually enter your passcode every time to unlock your phone when you are outside, here you can use Face ID with a mask on your iPhone.
Which iPhones Support Face ID with Mask
The ability to unlock your iPhone via Face ID with a mask will surely make a lot of people happy. However, this feature is only supported on a handful of iPhones. Here are all the iPhones that support unlocking via Face ID with a mask.
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
If you have an iPhone 11 series device or earlier, you cannot use this feature.
How to Enable Face ID with Mask on Your iPhone
If you have a supported iPhone, here's how to unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask with Face ID.
Step 1: Make sure your iPhone is updated to iOS 15.4 or later. Open the Settings app, tap on General and tap on Software Update to allow it to grab the latest update.
Step 2: After applying the update, open the Settings app and navigate to the Face ID & Passcode section.
Step 3: Enter your PIN to access the settings.
Step 4: Enable the toggle next to "Face ID with a Mask". Be sure to read the text under the option that tells you how Face ID works with a mask.
Step 5: Tap "Use Face ID with a mask" on the screen that appears.
Step 6: Read the onscreen instructions and when you're ready to set up your face, tap Start. As shown on the previous screen, you do not need to wear a mask during setup.
Step 7: Slowly move your head around the circle to register your face.
Step 8: Once Face ID setup is complete, select Done.
You have now successfully activated Face ID with a mask on your iPhone. Try unlocking your iPhone with a mask, and it should work as expected. You can also unlock apps and use Face ID for transactions with a mask.
How to set up your glasses with Face ID
The new iOS 15.4 update also adds an option to use Face ID with a pair of glasses. If you wear glasses or wear sunglasses often, it's a good idea to set this up as Apple recommends it too. Here is how you can configure it.
Step 1: Open the Settings app and tap on Face ID & Passcode.
Step 2: Enter your PIN to access the settings.
Step 3: Under “Face ID with a Mask” you will find a new option that says Add glasses. Press it.
Step 4: Select Continue when prompted.
Step 5: Wear your glasses and position your face in the frame. Turn your head to complete the scan.
Step 6: Tap Done.
Step 7: Repeat the process from step 3 if you have multiple pairs of glasses. This will ensure that Face ID with a mask works with any pair of glasses you wear, including sunglasses.
You should now be able to use Face ID seamlessly with your iPhone while wearing a mask and a pair of glasses.
How to Use Face ID with Mask on Unsupported iPhones
As mentioned earlier, this new feature only applies to iPhone 12 or newer devices. If you have an older iPhone with Face ID, there is a workaround you can use to unlock your iPhone via Face ID with a mask. However, this trick requires an Apple Watch Series 3 or later. If you do, here's how to use it.
Step 1: Open the Settings app and go to Face ID & Passcode.
Step 2: Enter your PIN to access the settings.
Step 3: Make sure your Apple Watch is paired with your iPhone and unlocked.
Step 4: Scroll down to find the "Unlock with Apple Watch" section. Activate the toggle and you're ready to go.
After that, your iPhone will unlock via Face ID even with a mask on as long as you are wearing your Apple Watch and it is unlocked.
Unlock Your iPhone With Mask On
Set up Face ID with Mask on your iPhone and enjoy a hassle-free unlock experience on the go! You no longer have to lower your mask to unlock your phone or enter your password every time.