Google recently announced its Pixel 4 series during its annual Made by Google event. During its presentation, the search engine claimed that its Face Unlock, one of the device’s primary security feature, is one of the world’s fastest facial recognition technology. The problem is, the security feature might be a little too effective.
The Face Unlock flaw was first discovered by BBC reporter Chris Fox, who demonstrated via Twitter how the Pixel 4’s facial sensor was able to unlock the phone while pretending to be asleep. As you can see in the video, it takes less than a second to execute and gives anyone who has access to Fox’s phone complete access.
One possible reason behind this is probably because, unlike most facial recognition technology and hardware, Google’s Motion Sense scans your facial characteristics in its entirety, instead of requiring you to keep your eyes open and facing the camera during the recognition process.
Proof, for those asking #madebygoogle #pixel4 pic.twitter.com/mBDJphVpfB
— Chris Fox (@thisisFoxx) October 15, 2019
In a way, Google’s Face Unlock is similar to Apple’s Face ID that made its debut with the iPhone X. Unlike Google, though, Face ID still requires ensures users to have their eyes open before fully unlocking the phone.
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The good news is that Google is aware of the issue and has even acknowledged it. Additionally, there doesn’t seem to be a “require eyes to open” options upon the feature’s settings, which could be unsettling for future owners of the Pixel 4. That said, Google said that it promises to make improvements to the feature as time goes by.
Google has confirmed to me: this is how Face Unlock will work when the Pixel 4 goes on sale. There will not be a "require eyes to be open" option at launch. #madebygoogle #pixel4
— Chris Fox (@thisisFoxx) October 17, 2019
The Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL will be available from 24 October onwards.
(Source: Chris Fox via TNW // Image: Google)
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