With iOS 26, Apple is introducing a feature that significantly simplifies everyday life with the iPhone and Apple Vision Pro. In combination with visionOS 26, the iPhone can now be unlocked while wearing the Vision Pro—even when a fully immersive experience such as an environment is active.
Many Vision Pro users are familiar with the problem: A message appears on the iPhone, a quick glance at the device, but it remains locked. Face ID doesn't work because the Vision Pro blocks the direct view. Then comes the cumbersome procedure: wait until Face ID fails and then enter the passcode. With iOS 26 and visionOS 26, this odyssey is over. From now on, the iPhone can be unlocked directly with the Vision Pro – whether in the menu or in the middle of an immersive environment. This makes the interaction between the two devices more seamless and more suitable for everyday use.
Requirements for unlocking
In order to use the new function, several conditions must be met:
- iOS 26 must be installed on the iPhone
- The Apple Vision Pro must run visionOS 26
- Both devices must be connected to the same Apple account
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi must be enabled
- The Vision Pro must be worn and unlocked
Only if these requirements are met can the iPhone be unlocked with the Vision Pro.
Activation in the settings
The setup is done directly on the iPhone:
- Open Settings
- Select Face ID & Passcode
- Select “Unlock with nearby devices”
Please note: Activation is only possible when the Vision Pro is currently being worn and unlocked. This prevents accidental activation and ensures the necessary security.
How to unlock with Vision Pro
Apple describes how it works like this:
Use the secure connection to your nearby devices to unlock your iPhone for Siri requests or when an object is blocking Face ID from recognizing your face. To unlock, the devices must be protected by a passcode, unlocked, and worn.
Apple is adding a practical alternative to Face ID. The iPhone remains securely protected, but can still be unlocked if Face ID isn't working. What's particularly exciting is that unlocking is even possible in a fully immersive experience. Whether in a virtual environment or while working in visionOS, the iPhone can be unlocked at any time, without restrictions.
iOS 26 makes using iPhone and Apple Vision Pro easier
With iOS 26 and visionOS 26, Apple is consistently expanding the integration of iPhone and Vision Pro. Unlocking the iPhone with Vision Pro is a solution to a common problem and saves time and hassle. The tedious entry of a passcode after a Face ID failure is a thing of the past. Even in immersive environments, the iPhone remains accessible. This significantly increases convenience without compromising security or data protection. Need useful tips for your Apple Vision Pro? Discover everything you need to know about your new Apple device here – enjoy reading! Looking for accessories? Our Amazon Storefront is your destination for high-quality products, including HomeKit-compatible ones! (Image: Shutterstock / pio3)
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FAQ: iOS 26, visionOS 26 and iPhone unlocking
With iOS 26 and visionOS 26, the iPhone can be unlocked with Apple Vision Pro – even during immersive environments.
Required are iOS 26 on the iPhone, visionOS 26 on the Vision Pro, the same Apple account, activated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and a worn and unlocked Vision Pro.
The feature is enabled under Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Unlock with Nearby Devices. The Vision Pro must be worn and unlocked.
Yes, with iOS 26, unlocking is possible even during fully immersive experiences on the Vision Pro.
Yes, this feature relies on a secure connection. Both devices must be protected by a passcode, and the Vision Pro must be worn and unlocked.
Requirements like enabled Wi-Fi or Bluetooth are usually missing. All conditions must be met.
No, the feature is only available for iPhone models with Face ID and iOS 26.
No, Face ID remains active. The Vision Pro adds Face ID as an additional unlock method.
Yes, as long as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled and both devices are close to each other. An active internet connection is not required.
