The iPhone X doesn’t just look different thanks to its 5.8-inch OLED display, but using it is a completely new experience. That’s because Apple ditched the iconic home button for an advanced front-facing camera, which utilizes a Face ID feature that will recognize your face.
The idea behind Face ID is pretty simple. Instead of placing your finger on a sensor, you simply stare at your phone and that’s it. You can use it to unlock your device, get into apps, and authorize payments, just as you did with Touch ID.
Setup is super quick and easy
Setting up Face ID is a pretty straightforward process thanks to Apple’s easy-to-follow instructions. When you set the feature up, you’ll be required to position your face in front of the iPhone X and move your head in a slow circle. That’s pretty much it.
As a backup, you’ll be required to set a passcode just in case Face ID fails and you need to get into your phone. Once Face ID is setup, you can go into Settings > Face ID & Passcode to choose which features you want to use with the facial recognition feature.
It’s a complex system that adapts
Every time you use Face ID, the TrueDepth camera projects 30,000 invisible dots to create a depth map of your face. Like Touch ID, your Face ID data is stored on the iPhone’s Secure Enclave, which Apple doesn’t have access to.
What if I change my appearance, you ask. Well, Face ID was setup in a way to adapt to any changes in your appearance. If you grow a beard, for example, Face ID will recognize that it’s you. Same goes for when you wear glasses or a hat. Apple said that Face ID will work with some sunglasses, but not all.
The feature should also work in any lighting condition, whether you’re indoors or outdoors, or even in complete darkness.
In terms of security, Apple claims the chances of a random person being able to unlock your iPhone X using Face ID is 1 in 1,000,000, as opposed to 1 in 50,000 for Touch ID. It’s worth noting, however, that Face ID isn’t foolproof against identical twins.
Once you have Face ID setup, you should be able to unlock your device without pressing any buttons. Just glance at your phone, and once the lock icon shows it’s open, swipe to unlock your device.
The jury’s still out on whether ditching the home button completely was a good move by Apple. But there’s no denying Face ID is a groundbreaking feature that completely changes how people use the iPhone.
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