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Apple has implemented some interesting features in iOS 14.5, including the "Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch" feature. But there are limitations.
Apple has integrated important changes, adjustments, but also innovations and bug fixes in iOS 14.5. One of the new features has been implemented in the area of Face ID. The iPhone can be automatically unlocked under iOS 14.5 in conjunction with an Apple Watch with watchOS 7.4 when a face mask is worn. This means that if an unlocked Apple Watch is worn, the iPhone can be unlocked directly with Face ID despite a face mask. A code is not required. However, if the Apple Watch's wrist detection is deactivated, the new feature cannot be used. This is how Apple explains it:
iPhone can use your Apple Watch to unlock when Face ID recognizes a face wearing a mask. Your Apple Watch must be nearby, on your wrist, unlocked, and protected by a passcode.
iOS 14.5: How to unlock iPhone with Apple Watch
To activate the function, the Face ID & Code section must be opened in the iOS settings. The function can now be activated. But be careful, for the feature to actually work, the following requirements must be met:
- Face ID recognizes a mask
- The Apple Watch is nearby
- Wrist detection is active
- Your Apple Watch is on your wrist
- The Apple Watch uses a password and is unlocked
If the iPhone is now unlocked using Apple's smartwatch, the user receives haptic feedback from the Apple Watch.
There are conscious restrictions.
But there are some important exceptions. The "Unlock iPhone with Apple Watch" feature is limited to masks. This means it won't work if your iPhone can't detect whether you're wearing a mask. Furthermore, the feature isn't available for things like Apple Pay, credit card autofill in Safari, or access to Apple Card features in the Wallet app. These restrictions were made by Apple deliberately integrated because the function is not as secure as direct Face ID authentication. (Photo by BackyardProductions / Bigstockphoto)
