Pixel 4 eye detection fix for face unlock on the way, says Google
Google was in the spotlight last week with the introduction of the brand new Pixel 4 lineup. The two phones mark the first time in the Pixel era that Google decided to ditch the fingerprint scanner in favor of face unlock and it did not come without its issues. Soon after the launch, early Pixel 4 users reported that their devices would unlock even when their eyes are closed, which could be a security issue for many.
Now, Google has issued a statement that claims a software fix is coming but there’s no exact date specified yet. In addition, the company is backing down its face unlock and says it meets all biometric security requirements. For those users who are still skeptical, Google suggests opting for the “lockdown” feature which requires a pin/pattern or password to get into the phone after long pressing the power button.
The Pixel 4’s face unlock system relies on 3D facial depth mapping which is much more secure than using the regular front-facing camera. Omitting the attention requirement however is highly vulnerable as someone could just point the phone at your face and get in. If all goes well Google should offer the eye detection fix in the coming months.