Learn all about the facial recognition system, how it works, and how to set it up on your device (Android or iOS) in this guide.

New Delhi: Facial recognition, or face recognition technology, is a biometric authentication method that uses unique patterns and features in a person’s face to identify them. This technology is then used to provide users with a convenient and secure way to unlock devices, authorise payments, and access apps, and therefore has become increasingly important for mobile device security these days.

Learn all about the facial recognition system, how it works, and how to set it up on your device in this guide.

How does Face Recognition work?

Facial recognition works by capturing, analysing, and comparing patterns based on a person’s facial details. It uses algorithms to map facial features from a photo or video and compare this information with stored facial features to find a match.

Two of the most popular facial recognition systems are Apple’s Face ID and Android’s Face Unlock. Apple’s Face ID uses a TrueDepth camera system to project and analyse over 30,000 invisible dots to create a depth map of your face. On the other hand, Android’s Face Unlock uses your device’s front-facing camera and special software to recognise your face.

Setting Up Face Recognition on Your Device

To set up facial recognition on your device, follow these steps:

For iOS:

1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
2. Enter your passcode.
3. Tap Set Up Face ID.
4. Position your face inside the frame and gently move your head to complete the circle.
5. Tap Continue and repeat the process to complete the Face ID setup.

For Android:

1. Go to Settings > Security.
2. Tap Face Unlock.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your face.
4. Choose your unlock method (swipe, PIN, pattern, or password) to prevent unauthorised access.

To unlock your device using facial recognition, simply raise your device to wake it up and look at the screen. The device will automatically recognise your face and unlock it. For optimal use, ensure good lighting conditions and hold your device 10–20 inches away from your face.

Future of Biometric and Facial Recognition Technology

Biometric technology, including facial recognition and fingerprint authentication, is rapidly evolving and becoming increasingly crucial in various industries like healthcare, banking, hospitality, and payment processing. Here are some key points their impact in the future:

• Biometrics in Healthcare: The healthcare sector is adopting biometrics for patient identity authentication, improving check-in processes, emotional response analysis, remote patient monitoring, and digital record protection.
• Biometrics in Banking: Biometric authentication is gaining traction in banking for secure customer identification, meeting regulatory requirements, enhancing online banking security, and enabling contactless authentication methods like facial recognition at ATMs.
• Future Trends: The future of biometrics involves advanced technologies such as odor recognition, heartbeat pattern recognition, hand geometry, DNA signature reading, and continuous authentication to enhance security measures.
• Challenges: Despite the advancements, challenges like physical spoofing remain a concern for image-based biometric systems. Continuous innovation is essential to address emerging threats and ensure robust security measures.
• Market Growth: The global biometrics market is projected to exceed $50 billion by 2024 due to increased investments in national identity programmes, advancements in technology making biometrics more secure and affordable, and growing demand from sectors like law enforcement, immigration control, and retail.
• Applications: Biometric technology is expanding into various sectors beyond traditional uses. It is increasingly integrated into consumer electronics for tasks like unlocking devices or making secure payments through facial recognition. The technology’s versatility and ease of use contribute to its widespread adoption across different industries

Facial recognition technology offers an enhanced level of convenience and security, thus ensuring that even in the future, this technology is here to stay.