Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 Series can now work with payments and banking apps
Google is bringing Face Unlock to more apps on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. This feature, which was previously only available for unlocking the device, will now be able to be used for Google Pay, banking, and other app sign-ins.
This is an impressive upgrade from the Pixel 7, and it's made possible by the Tensor G3 chip and advanced machine learning algorithms. Previously, Google had not been able to achieve Class 3 biometric classification without the addition of a LiDAR sensor, but this has now changed.
Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 series is now classified as a Class 3 (formerly Strong) biometric, which allows it to be used for BiometricPrompt (ie. authenticate within apps) and the Android Keystore.
— Mishaal Rahman (@MishaalRahman) October 4, 2023
This means you'll be able to use the Pixel 8's Face Unlock in banking apps and… pic.twitter.com/QHcTLjXUaq
Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro uses a combination of sensors and software to create a 3D map of your face. This map is then stored securely on your device and used to verify your identity when you try to unlock it or sign into an app.
Google Tensor G3 works with the Titan M2 security chip to protect personal information and make your Pixel more resilient to sophisticated attacks. And now, Face Unlock on Pixel 8 meets the highest Android biometric class, allowing you to access compatible banking and payment apps like Google Wallet. (Source: Google)
Google says that Face Unlock on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro is more secure than ever before. Thanks to the Tensor G3 chip and advanced machine learning algorithms, Face Unlock now meets the highest Android biometric standard.
Credit - Google
This will be a plus for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users, as previous Pixel models — save for the Pixel 4, which included dedicated hardware such as the IR camera and more — did not have this feature available. Having to go through an additional authentication using your fingerprint was a necessary evil when making payments, which I imagine will also be the case when using your face instead. Regardless, it is a step in the right direction when it comes to adding convenience to the consumer without sacrificing security.
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