Face ID with a Mask iOS 15 Setup Changes

With the release of iOS 15.4, Apple redesigned the Face ID setup flow to allow facial recognition while wearing a face covering. This article outlines the specific interface and layout changes introduced during the setup process, including the new selection screen, adjusted enrollment instructions, and dedicated options for users who wear glasses.

The Initial Selection Screen

When configuring Face ID on supported devices running iOS 15.4 or later, the initial setup screen presents a bifurcated choice rather than immediately launching into the circular camera scan. Users are greeted with a full-page prompt titled "Use Face ID with a Mask" that requires choosing between two distinct options:

  • Use Face ID with a Mask: Configures the TrueDepth camera to focus on the unique biometric features around the eye region.
  • Don't Use Face ID with a Mask: Retains the standard full-face enrollment method without the modified eye-level scanning parameters.

Descriptive text on this layout clearly explains that Face ID is most accurate when set up for full-face recognition, but acknowledges the convenience of mask-compatible authentication.

Enrollment Instructions and Positioning

During the actual scanning process, the interface layout reinforces that users do not need to wear a mask while enrolling. The circular camera view remains largely identical to the classic setup, but the textual instructions emphasize maintaining direct eye contact with the TrueDepth camera system. Because mask authentication relies heavily on periocular details, the system prompts the user to rotate their head to complete the circle while ensuring the eye area remains unobstructed.

Dedicated "Add Glasses" Configuration Layout

Because periocular scanning relies heavily on the bridge of the nose and the eye area, Apple introduced a dedicated "Add Glasses" option directly below the "Use Face ID with a Mask" toggle in Settings > Face ID & Passcode.

When selecting this option, the setup initiates an additional scan layout specifically tailored to calibrate the device with prescription eyewear. Users can repeat this process for up to four pairs of glasses. The interface explicitly notes that sunglasses are not supported when using Face ID with a mask, as eye visibility is mandatory for secure authentication.