With iOS 15.4, Apple gets rid of a big annoyance and integrates a new function to be able to use Face ID with a mask. Whether unlocking the cell phone, paying via Apple Wallet or showing the CovPass app in the restaurant: none of this requires contortions anymore.
On Monday evening, Apple published the release of iOS 15.4, which is available for free download in the iPhone settings.Two features stand out as very special because they are features that are intended to make life a bit easier in the pandemic.
Unlock phone and pay with mask: New version of Face ID
Unlock the cell phone despite the mask, you can work with tricks or take the detour via an Apple Watch. In iOS 15.4, Apple launches an additional version of Face ID. Users can choose between two variants when setting up:
- Default: iPhone users have known this type of facial recognition for a long time, because it is the version used previously, which only works without a mask because all facial features are used, especially around the mouth and nose.
- With mask: The second version of Face ID is new because it allows you to wear a mask. Previously, Face ID recognized a face mask and then asked for the PIN code. Apple points out that the new variant is less secure because only the eye area is used for authentication. An additional option allows the face to be captured with and without glasses.
So if you want to open the CovPass app with your iPhone in the future, you can do it faster despite the mask if the new version of Face ID has been set up. Of course, this is also practical for other apps that you have to access with a mask on your face and that may even do an additional Face ID check, such as password managers or banking apps. Unfortunately, it seems that the new version of Face ID only works on iPhone 12 or newer.
Certificate finally ends up in Apple Wallet
Additionally, with iOS 15.4, the EU Covid digital certificate can now be added to Apple Wallet and also to the Health app. In future, you will no longer have to explicitly call up the CovPass or Corona Warning app to show your vaccination certificate in the restaurant or when entering the bar.
Even more emojis: Apple brings over 100 new chat symbols
Over 100 new emojis can be used with iOS 15.4 in WhatsApp & Co, including a melting face and a face hiding behind your own hands. New hand signs include an upward hand, an index finger pointed at the reader, and two hands forming a heart.
You can find an overview of all new emojis on emojipedia.org.