TECH

Google Pixel 11 face unlock could rival iPhone's Face ID with nighttime capabilities

With under-screen fingerprint scanners, Android phones don't necessarily need face unlock – especially since a secure version requires complex hardware, like the setup Apple uses in its iPhone notch. Still, a new leak suggests Google thinks it's a feature worth adding to the Pixel 11.

The scoop comes from Android Authority, which obtained internal documentation from Google's chip division. According to these documents, Google is exploring the idea of integrating an under-display infrared camera into the upcoming Tensor G6 processor, which is expected to power the Pixel 11 series.

The publication explains that a newly designed "lite" front-end component for the image signal processor, developed specifically for under-display cameras, would enable the chip to manage these systems more efficiently and with reduced power consumption.

Currently, Pixel devices already offer face unlock. Notably, since the Pixel 8, the implementation meets Android's highest biometric security standard (Class 3), meaning it could theoretically be used for high-security applications, such as payment verification. These cameras feature dual-pixel autofocus (DPAF) to scan faces in 3D with the help of machine learning.

However, the current setup relies on the standard selfie camera, which limits its functionality in low light and lacks the sophistication of Apple's Face ID.

It's also worth noting that, back in the Pixel 4 days, Google used a more advanced face unlock system with dual IR cameras and a dot projector, enabling reliable facial recognition even in low light – though it still fell short of Face ID's security standards. This new under-display approach seems to be inspired by that earlier, more robust setup.

As Android Authority points out, adding this capability to the Tensor G6 doesn't guarantee it'll make it into the final Pixel 11 phones. Google could decide to scrap or delay the feature. Still, with Apple and Android brands constantly striving to outdo each other, Google would miss a significant chance to compete head-on with the iPhone's authentication system if they chose to hold back.

Competitive Edge and Market Position...Reviving Face Unlock gives Google’s Pixel lineup a competitive advantage, especially since facial recognition is now one of the most sought-after features in premium smartphones. With Apple continuously enhancing Face ID on iPhones and Samsung advancing its own biometric technologies, Google’s reintroduction of Face Unlock allows it to meet and potentially exceed industry standards. By incorporating facial recognition into the Google Pixel 11, Google demonstrates a commitment to bridging the gap between Pixel’s capabilities and the feature sets of other flagship devices.

Moreover, reintroducing Face Unlock aligns with Google’s vision for integrating AI and machine learning into all aspects of the Pixel experience. The combination of advanced facial recognition, real-time language translation, and Google’s AI-based photography software makes the Pixel 11 more than just a smartphone it becomes an intelligent companion that anticipates user needs and adapts accordingly.

Conclusion...As the launch of the Google Pixel 11 approaches, rumours about its features continue to build anticipation. The return of Face Unlock, powered by sophisticated hardware and AI-driven enhancements, represents Google’s dedication to improving the Pixel experience. With Face Unlock’s comeback, the Google Pixel 11 is positioned to appeal not only to long-time fans of the Pixel brand but also to new users looking for a secure, intuitive, and cutting-edge smartphone. By bringing back a beloved feature and refining it to match current technology standards, Google reinforces its place in the highly competitive smartphone landscape, offering users an enticing blend of innovation and convenience.

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