It’s one of the more frustrating experiences of the modern day — trying to unlock your iPhone with Face ID while wearing a face mask. Well, Apple has finally provided a solution, if you have an Apple Watch.
Apple adds new iOS 14.5
Apple dropped the new iOS 14.5 software update this week for iPhones and iPads. The update includes a new option that will allow you to unlock your phone with a mask on.
- To update your phone, first backup all your iPhone data on your computer. Then, add your device to a charger and connect to Wi-Fi. Head to Settings, then General, then Software Update, according to Fast Company.
How to unlock your iPhone with a face mask
Right now, Face ID — which uses facial recognition — doesn’t work when you’re wearing a mask since your face is covered.
- But if you have an Apple Watch on your wrist, your phone will unlock when you open it up since the two devices are synced. Your watch will send you a notification to let you know the phone is unlocked, per BuzzFeed News.
- If you don’t have an Apple Watch, there really isn’t an option for you, according to BuzzFeed News.
Is this a problem?
Just a note — this could present a problem. According to The Verge, the phone “isn’t looking for your face with a mask.” So there’s a chance someone else could unlock your phone if your Apple Watch is nearby.