The new Apple iPhone X has 2 signature additions, the first is an all-screen design, and
the other is facial recognition software. The feature is powered by a sensor setup and
very small Kinect camera. In theory, it is able to complete the same tasks as Touch ID,
but even more secure according to Apple.
So, for those of you patiently waiting for the newest iPhone who have questions about
the facial recognition technology – Apple has you covered. They just released a white
paper that shares all their secrets behind how it works.
How does the Facial Scan work?
The phone will feature a TrueDepth camera that is able to project 30,000 infrared dots
that form the face’s depth map. Basically, the camera creates a series of these depth
maps and 2D images to the “Secure Enclave”, the area that also secures fingerprint
data for Touch ID.
The system is setup to rescan the user’s face and update the information as needed,
and will not prompt the user to do so. The system will most likely do this when specific
facial changes are detected and considered worthy of a data upgrade.
The part is the software will work in all lighting conditions, and both indoors and
outdoors.
Can you keep your pictures scanned from Face ID?
The short answer to this is no. The system does not store the photos in the enclave. In
fact, the photos are deleted as soon as they are transformed into a mathematical
representation.
How fast does it work?
The basis behind the technology is to help the user create a more complex password
without the need of typing it constantly. The Face ID option will not replace your
passcode. However, much like Touch ID, it will provide easier access within time
constraints and boundaries that are reasonable.
So, in other words, the speed will be comparable to Touch ID.
Is it Encrypted?
Of course! Face ID encrypts your phone just as a regular password or Touch ID does.
Are there times when Face ID will not unlock the phone?
Yes, Apple has included several fail-safes for security reasons. Here are some
instances where the technology will not work:
● The phone has been restarted or turned on after being powered off.
● The phone has been locked for over 48 hours
● Following 5 unsuccessful scan attempts
● The phone received a remote lock command
● The passcode has not been typed to unlock the phone in over 156 hours, and
Face ID has not been used for over 4 hours
● Following an Emergency SOS/power off by pressing and holding a volume button
and the button on the side at the same time for 2 seconds
Face ID in Apps and Apple Pay
Face ID will work inside apps and with Apple Pay just as Touch ID works. This means
you’re able to unlock your phone and authenticate secure transactions. It may be faster
than Touch when it comes to this because there will be nothing for you to do. When
using an app you are already looking at your phone, so the device will simply notify you
that your authentication was accepted.