The Google Pixel 8 series arrived last year with an improved face unlock feature that allows users to access compatible banking and payment apps. WhatsApp has now rolled out support for the face unlock feature on Pixel 8 phones. This update provides a convenient way to unlock WhatsApp and keep your chats safe from prying eyes. Once users have set up facial recognition in the instant messaging app, they can just look at the phone's front-facing camera to unlock the app. This facility eliminates the need for biometric authentication.
The Meta-owned instant messaging platform has added a new layer of security with its latest app update for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users. Face unlock support on the Pixel 8 series seems to have been implemented with WhatsApp stable version 2.24.8.85. After the update, WhatsApp will show a system face unlock sheet at the bottom of the screen and a ring around the front camera when starting the app. If the app doesn't recognize the user's face within a few seconds, it will return to the fingerprint sensor prompt. Users can also choose to enter their PIN. At Gadgets 360 we were able to use face unlock on the Pixel 8 for WhatsApp.
The latest update also seems to bring visual changes to the “WhatsApp Locked” screen. As seen on our Pixel 8, the lock screen now displays the word “locked” instead of the previous branding.
Google has offered a face unlock option on its flagship phones for years. However, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 pro smartphones, launched in October last year, were the first to feature enhanced face unlock capabilities that allow users to access compatible banking and payment apps like Google Wallet.
This feature is powered by the Google Tensor G3 SoC and advanced machine learning algorithms combined with the Titan M2 security chip. It can be used to authorize a contactless NFC transaction using Google Pay.
