Setting up an alternate appearance using Face ID

Facebook ID Alternative Appearance

Apple offers a way to create an “alternate appearance” on iOS devices with Face ID. Here are the step-by-step instructions for making this happen.

First, a reminder

The technology behind Face ID uses a device’s True Depth camera to identify markings on a face to unlock and authenticate. It’s also designed to work with Apple Pay and to open secured apps.

One key component of Face ID is its ability to use advanced machine learning to recognize changes in your appearance, such as hair growth, a new pair of glasses, etc.

Apple claims setting up an alternate appearance pushes this recognition to an all-new level and never says it’s intended to recognize someone else’s face. Instead, Apple notes: “In addition to continuously learning how you look, Face ID can recognize an alternative appearance.”

Setting up another face with Face ID

Whatever your reason for using the tool, setup is easy and should look familiar. Here’s how to do it.

1) First, be sure that you have already setup Face ID for yourself.

2) Once this is done, go into the Settings app and select Face ID & Passcode.

3) Type in your passcode.

FaceID Alternative appearance

4) Tap Set Up an Alternate Appearance.

5) Select Get Started.

Face ID Setup

6) On the next screen, you’ll be asked to go through the quick procedure of adding your face as an alternative appearance for Face ID. This requires moving your head slowly to complete a circle.

Note: The setup is identical to how you do this the first time around. 

7) To reset Face ID, you must go back into the Settings app under Face ID & Passcode, then tap Reset Face ID. Follow the directions above again.

Wrap Up

Setting up an alternate appearance for Face ID is very simple and will allow you to add a second person to your Face ID account.