For Pixel 11? Google is working on improved facial unlocking like on iPhones

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Users of even a current Pixel 10 smartphone are likely familiar with the limitations of unlocking their smartphone with their face: it simply doesn't work in the dark. This could change with the Pixel 11, expected to be released in August.

"Face ID" for Pixel in the Works

At least, that's what the portal Android Authority reports, citing people familiar with the development. According to the source, Google is working on advanced facial recognition under "Project Toscana" that is intended to be suitable for both Android smartphones and Chromebooks or PCs with Aluminum OS.

According to the report, tests with the new technology, which may involve infrared sensors, have been conducted in various lighting conditions. The results are said to be similarly good as with an iPhone with Face ID. "Project Toscana" is said to unlock devices comparably quickly. For the Pixel smartphone, Google is said to have tested the new technology with a single camera cutout in the screen, and for two Chromebooks with external cameras. The Chromebooks apparently corresponded, among other things, with visible mainboards.

Reminiscent of the Pixel 4

Since the Pixel 8, Google has used a simple front camera, supported by AI for facial unlocking. According to Google, this is so secure that banking apps can also use it for authentication. It works flawlessly in sufficient light. In the dark, users currently have to rely on the fingerprint sensor integrated into the screen as an alternative.

For comparison: Since 2017, Apple has used a so-called Face ID technology in its top models, which consists of multiple sensors and is installed in the notch or the pill-shaped cutout at the top of the screen. Apple's solution works reliably even in the dark, among other things, through an infrared sensor.

For Google, such a solution would not be entirely new, because with the Pixel 4, the company already used a large sensor array including an infrared sensor. In the 5 series, Google scrapped the sensor array again, including the mini-radar for gesture control, which found little acceptance.

Perhaps already in the Pixel 11

Google has reportedly been considering a return of facial recognition technology since 2024. Given the manufacturer's technological experience, Android Authority speculates that an improved Face ID alternative could already be integrated into the Pixel 11. The next generation of the Pixel series is expected in August of this year.

Since Google occasionally presents such technological developments before the actual unveiling of the finished products, the company might present them this year in the course of Google I/O. The developer conference takes place on May 19 and 20.

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