Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are the latest flagship smartphones from the tech giant and they come with many new features powered by artificial intelligence. One of these features is the improved Face Unlock, which allows users to unlock their devices, sign into apps and make payments with a single glance. But how reliable is this feature and how does it compare to other biometric authentication methods?
How does Face Unlock work on the Pixel 8 series?
Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 series uses a combination of sensors and software to create a 3D map of your face, which is then stored securely on your device and used to verify your identity when you try to unlock it or sign into an app.. According to Google’s tests, Spoof Acceptance Rate (SAR) is 0-7%, False Acceptance Rate (FAR) is 1/50k, and False Rejection Rate (FRR) is 10, making it safe enough to use in payments. and banking apps.
Unlike the previous generation Pixel 7, which only had a single front-facing camera for face unlock, the Pixel 8 series uses a new machine learning chip called Tensor G3 to increase the accuracy and speed of face unlock. Google says the Tensor G3 works with the Titan M2 security chip to protect personal information and make the Pixel more resilient to sophisticated attacks.
How does Face Unlock compare to other biometric authentication methods?
Face Unlock is not the only biometric authentication method available on smartphones. Other methods include fingerprint scanning, iris scanning and voice recognition. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of convenience, safety and reliability.
Fingerprint scanning is one of the most common biometric authentication methods on smartphones, as it is fast, easy and widely supported by apps. However, the fingerprint scanning sensor or finger can be affected by dirt, moisture or damage. It can also be spoofed using fake fingerprints or copies of the user’s fingerprints.
Iris scanning is another biometric authentication method that uses the unique patterns of the user’s eyes to verify their identity. Iris scanning is more secure than fingerprint scanning, as it is harder to spoof or copy. However, iris scanning can be inconvenient, as it requires the user to hold the phone up to their eyes and look at the sensor in good lighting conditions. It can also be affected by glasses, contact lenses or eye diseases.
Voice recognition is a biometric authentication method that uses a user’s voice to unlock their device or access certain features. Voice recognition can be convenient, as it does not require any physical contact with the device. However, voice recognition can be unreliable, as it can be affected by background noise, accent, or changes in the user’s voice due to illness or emotion. It can also be spoofed by recording or imitating the user’s voice.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 series?
Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 series has several advantages over other biometric authentication methods. Some of these benefits are:
- It’s fast and easy to use, as it only requires the user to see their device.
- It is safe and reliable, as it uses a 3D map of the user’s face that is stored locally on the device and protected by encryption.
- It works with banking apps and payments, as it meets the highest Android biometric class requirements.
- It works in different orientations and angles, as it uses machine learning to recognize the user’s face.
However, Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 series has some drawbacks that users should be aware of. Some of these errors are:
- It may not work well in low light or with a mask or sunglasses.
- It may not work well with identical twins or siblings who look alike.
- It may not work well with drastic changes in the user’s appearance due to aging, weight loss or cosmetic surgery.
- It may not be compatible with some apps that do not support Face Unlock.
Conclusion
Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 series is a feature that uses artificial intelligence to provide a convenient and secure way to unlock your device and access your apps. However, like any other biometric authentication method, it has its own limitations and challenges that users should consider before fully relying on it. Users should set up a backup PIN, pattern or password in case Face Unlock fails or is unavailable for any reason.
