Finally, iOS 15.4 Beta 1 adds the ability to "unmask iPhone Face ID" without an Apple Watch. However, it has become clear that this feature is limited to the iPhone 12 series (released in 2020) and the iPhone 13 series (released in 2021).
According to the US 9to5Mac test, the "Use Face ID with masked" function is available on iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. It has been confirmed that it cannot be used on earlier iPhone X, iPhone XS, and iPhone 11.
In addition, it is stated that it was verified that this function cannot be supported on the iPad side (iPadOS 15.4 Beta 1) and iPad Pro (2018). Although it is not specifically mentioned, it seems that it will be available in models after 2019.
Apple explained that the iPhone is scanning for "unique (personal) features around the eyes" to authenticate Face ID while wearing a mask. From this, we speculate that 9to5Mac is limited to newer iPhones and iPads because it consumes more resources than traditional Face ID authentication.
Why is it limited to iPhone 12 and above? "It's because of the new TrueDepth system. Apple advertised that the iPhone 12 has more unlockable angles," said Shrimp ApplePro, a well-known leaker who sends out influential information about unreleased products of interest. increase.
In other words, after 12 the performance of the TrueDepth camera that realizes face recognition has been improved, suggesting that it is now possible to ensure sufficient security while authenticating only with the features around the eyes.
Also famous leaker Jon Prosser once said before the iPhone 13 was announced, "We are testing Face ID hardware that can be unlocked while masked or clouded."
There, a Face ID camera was installed in a case that fits the iPhone 12. However, Apple may have decided that an improved TrueDepth camera from iPhone 12 or later can be "unlocked while masked" without external hardware.
On the other hand, this function cannot be used on Face ID compatible iPhones before iPhone 11, but it can be unlocked with Apple Watch on iOS 14.5 and watchOS 8.4 or later (although identity verification such as Apple Pay is not possible). I've heard people say, "I bought an Apple Watch to unlock it while masked," but it seems that the Apple Watch will continue to play an active role with past iPhone models.
Source: 9to5Mac