One of the best ways to keep your phone safe is to make sure it’s locked so your kids can’t get into it without you knowing. This allows us, as parents, to have apps or games we wouldn’t let them use without worrying that they’re going to get into them. Maybe you keep your kids off your phone because your filters aren’t as strict, maybe you don’t want them reading all of your messages, maybe you just don’t want them resetting your Mario Run scores. Whatever your reasons for locking down your phone, the new iPhone X’s facial ID feature isn’t your best option. Here’s why.
The statistical probability is different for twins and siblings that look like you and among children under the age of 13, because their distinct facial features may not have fully developed. If you’re concerned about this, we recommend using a passcode to authenticate. – support.apple.com
What Parents Should Know
Apparently, young undeveloped faces can trick the facial recognition software on the iPhone X and let a child get access to your phone. If your phone isn’t locked down then your kids will have access to those in-app purchases, unfiltered searches, and accessing unapproved entertainment or social media you’ve blocked on their devices. Apple recommends you use a passcode if you have small children. This recommendation seems to hint that they’ve just accepted that this will be a limitation of their Face ID feature. My tip is to take Apple’s advice. Use a passcode if you have an iPhone X. If you want an iPhone X mostly because of Face ID then you may reconsider.