WhatsApp has added support for the Pixel 8 series’ face unlock. As many of you know, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro do support facial scanning. Google did not include specific hardware for it (other than the Tensor G3), but it’s using advanced software and a front-facing camera to make it possible. The level of security is quite high, though.
The Pixel 8 series users can now use face unlock on WhatsApp
With that in mind, WhatsApp users who use the app on one of the Pixel 8 devices can use face unlock instead of a fingerprint scanner. Up until now, the ‘App lock’ security feature only allowed users to use a fingerprint scanner or a PIN. Well, that’s no longer the case.
If you have activated face unlock, WhatsApp will simply start scanning for it. If not, you’ll still be able to use a fingerprint scanner or a PIN. It’s all about choices, and WhatsApp has started offering plenty of them.
This feature has been enabled with version 2.24.8.85 of WhatsApp. That’s a stable version of the app, by the way, we’re not talking about a beta build here or anything of the sort. Do note that there’s also a server-side component. So if you’ve installed that app already, you may have to wait for a server-side change.
Both the Pixel 8 & Pixel 8 Pro meet Android’s highest biometric standard level
It’s also worth noting that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro meet Android’s highest biometric standard level. We’re talking about the Class 3 level. The Google Tensor G3 SoC and advanced ML algorithms make that possible, despite the fact the phone doesn’t have a proper camera for 3D facial scanning.
Apple’s iPhones are going a different route, by including hardware for 3D facial scanning. The same goes for the HONOR Magic6 Pro, and some other phones in the market.