In iOS 15.4 there is a new function for Face ID, because it is now possible to unlock your iPhone even with a mouth cap on. Unfortunately, the feature doesn’t work on an older device, but why?
Face ID with mouth cap: does not work on older iPhone
iOS 15.4 contains quite a few new functions and a special option with which you can set Face ID with a mouth cap. When you install iOS 15.4 you will automatically be asked to do this. At least, if you have an iPhone 12 or newer. Unfortunately, the new feature doesn’t seem to work on older iPhones.
According to Apple, “specific features around the eyes” are picked up by Face ID, so that it works with a mouth cap. Apparently, this process demands more, much more from the iPhone than a standard Face ID scan. And the feature is therefore not available on an older iPhone.
Retrofitting Face ID
Did you skip the steps while installing iOS 15.4? And do you want to set up Face ID with a mouth cap afterwards? Which can! You’ll find the option under Settings > Face ID & Passcode. You can read the steps to set up Face ID with a mouth cap in the article below.
Read more: Set up Face ID with a mouth cap
Face ID with mouth cap: solution for old iPhone
Do you still have an iPhone 11 or older? Then you cannot set up Face ID with a mouth cap. However, there is another way that you can still unlock your iPhone, even when you are wearing a face mask. You do need an Apple Watch and iOS 14.5 or higher for this. Then you go through the following steps.
- Open the Settings on your iPhone;
- Scroll down and tap ‘Face ID & Passcode’;
- Enter your access code;
- Scroll down and turn on the feature under ‘Apple Watch from [naam]†
Your Apple Watch must be passcode protected, unlocked, on your wrist and close to your iPhone.
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