How to Use Face ID with a Mask – iPhone 12 or 13

by Miguel · April 21, 2022

It’s the Covid-19 pandemic era, and masks have come to stay – at least, for now. It’s no surprise that masks are now integrated into our day-to-day look, regardless of the occasion.

Due to these new changes, Apple thought of something mind-blowing – incorporating the “Face ID with a Mask” feature. This feature allows iPhone users to unlock their iPhones even with a mask on. The days where you’d need your entire face to unlock your iPhone are over. Now, the scanner only needs your eyes and forehead.

Although this feature is incredibly helpful, it has limited availability. It can only be found on IOS 15.4 and the latest iPhone models – iPhone 12 and 13.

If you fall into these categories, here’s how you can activate this feature.

Activating the “Face ID with a Mask” Feature on iPhone 12 & 13

Open the Settings Icon, then scroll down and tap “Face ID & Passcode.”

Next, toggle the “Use Face ID with a Mask” slider and tap on the Use Face ID with a Mask option when prompted.

Lastly, follow the onscreen instructions to scan your face by tapping Get Started. This process is similar to that used for the typical Face ID Set Up. But, this scan focuses mainly on your eyes.

Note:

You don’t have to wear a mask while scanning your face with your iPhone.
When unlocking your iPhone after setting this up, your forehead and eyes must be visible.
You can also add glasses to this scan and unlock your iPhone with a Face ID with glasses and a mask.
Users with older iPhone models or older software updates can unlock their iPhones with anything in their face using the Apple Watch.