Apple buffs were surprised by the latest iOS update (iOS15.4) that offers a convenient feature. Users who have an iPhone 12 or later can use Face ID even if they are wearing a mask to unlock their devices. But the question is: would it be safe to use?

To enable this security function, the user has to take multiple detailed photos of their faces. The device can distinguish particular and vital parts like eyes, eyeglasses, the tip of the nose, birthmarks or freckles on the forehead, and so on. Before this became available, some iPhone users had to physically remove their masks to reveal their entire faces just to unlock their phones. It might feel kind of inconvenient if they were in a public place, or if they had not yet been able to wash or sanitize their hands before touching their face mask.

Developers have been working on this function for two years since the COVID-19 pandemic first broke out. But of course, a probable disadvantage should be considered. Apple warns consumers that “face ID is most accurate when it’s set up for full-face recognition only.” Despite its accuracy issues, it’s worth remembering that you might encounter some missed unlocks while using it.