Google could take months to fix Pixel 4 Face Unlock
What's the story
When Google unveiled Pixel 4, we all were impressed to see Soli-powered Face Unlock and motion control capabilities. However, soon, all that hype came crashing down when a BBC journalist reported that facial-recognition tech of the phone can even work when the owner is asleep. This raised major security concerns, and now, it seems that the problem isn't going away anytime soon. Here's why.
Yes
Can anyone unlock Pixel 4?
As tested and verified by BBC's Chris Fox, Google Pixel 4's Face Unlock tech can detect a registered face even when the person's eyes are closed. The issue essentially allows anyone - with physical access to your Pixel 4 - to hold the phone up to your face when you're dozing and access all your data, including private photos and videos.
Twitter Post
Here's the proof
Proof, for those asking #madebygoogle #pixel4 pic.twitter.com/mBDJphVpfB
— Chris Fox (@thisisFoxx) October 15, 2019
Working
Apple mandates 'user attention' with Face ID on iPhones
Now, Face Unlock works pretty much like Apple's Face ID by using infrared cameras to create a depth map of your face and algorithmic processing to recognize it. However, unlike the former, Apple's system mandates attention, where you'd have to look directly into the front camera of your iPhone with both eyes open. It also provides an option to disable the requirement if needed.
Issue
However, Pixel 4 is like this by design
When the Face Unlock issue surfaced, Google confirmed the problem but emphasized that this is not a bug. Instead, the company stated the feature is like this by design and will improve with future updates. "We don't have anything specific to announce regarding future features or timing, but this feature is designed to get better over time," the company had said. Whatever that means!
Fix
Toggle called 'Require eyes to be open' in the works
Meanwhile, over the last few days, tipsters have reported that a toggle called 'require eyes to be open' is being developed for Face Unlock settings of Pixel 4. The feature isn't yet available but Google has now confirmed the capability, noting that it has been "working on an option for users to require their eyes to be open to unlock the phone".
Availability
Google says it would be available in the coming months
While Google's confirmation is a good sign, there's also a caveat - the option may take a few months to be delivered. The statement issued by the search giant clearly notes that the feature is being developed and "will be delivered in a software update in the coming months." So, if you're getting Pixel 4, you might have to keep it safely while sleeping.
Quote
It also suggests using 'Lockdown' until fix rolls out
"In the meantime, if any Pixel 4 users are concerned that someone may take their phone and try to unlock it while their eyes are closed, they can activate a security feature that requires a pin, pattern or password for the next unlock," Google added.