Edited by BellaRose Okojie
Since the COVID19 pandemic, wearing facemasks has become mandatory and a lot of smartphone users have had to cope with their facemasks and face unlock. Unlike Android devices with an additional biometric security option being the fingerprint scan, more recent iPhones come with only face unlock. This got in the way of users trying to unlock their iPhones while in public with a mask on.
While users have the option to unlock their iPhones by entering their passcode, prying eyes make it a bit of an issue when in public. Apple users have said they miss having a fingerprint sensor, but the company is making no promises it will return in the upcoming iPhone 14 series. So, for now, here are two ways you can unlock your iPhone while wearing a mask (without having to take it off).
Unlock your iPhone using your Apple watch
Being part of the Apple device ecosystem, the Apple Watch can seamlessly connect with an iPhone and share “some” information. If you have an Apple Watch, you can unlock your iPhone without having to take off your facemask. This feature works with iOS 14.5 and above and watchOS 7.4 and above, so ensure your iPhone and Apple Watch are both up-to-date.
- Ensure you have your Apple Watch with you, and it’s connected to your iPhone.
- Go to settings, scroll down and select “Face ID and Passcode.”
- Enter your iPhones passcode and find the “unlock with Apple Watch” section, then toggle the green slide next to your Apple Watch and tap “turn on.”
To unlock your iPhone with your Apple Watch, first unlock your Apple Watch, which should be on your wrist. Then, turn on your iPhone and hold it to your face with your facemask on. Your iPhone will recognize that you’re wearing a face mask and send a prompt to your Apple Watch informing you that your iPhone has been unlocked. You can lock your iPhone from your Apple Watch by following to prompt you’ll get on your watch.
Unlock your iPhone with the Face ID Scanner
This feature is only available on iPhone 12 and 13 series running iOS 15.4 and above. Once you update your iPhone to the latest iOS version, you’ll be able to use this feature seamlessly. To activate it, head over to your device settings and select “Face ID and Passcode” and input your passcode.
- Now select Face ID with a mask.
- On the next interface, tap “use Face ID with a mask” to proceed.
- Tap “get started” to continue, now place your face (without a facemask) in the provided frame.
- Move your head to complete the circle, and your iPhone will note significant points around your eyes to be able to identify you while on a facemask.
- Once completed, tap done.
Now you can unlock your iPhone even when you are wearing your facemask. Note that wearing a facemask is still important, as it not only protects you but also the people around you and you don’t have to breach Covid protocol by not wearing a mask.