Google updates Pixel 4 for face unlock with ‘open-eye’

Google today released a Pixel 4 update with an ‘open-eye fix, requiring users to keep their eyes open while unlocking the mobile phone using the facial unlock feature.

The update implements a feature called “require eyes to be open”, which defaults enable. It provides an extra protection measure in the face unlock settings of the Pixel 4, but you can disable this option in the phone’s look unlock settings.

One of the Pixel 4’s biggest complaints at launch was the lack of an open-eye detection feature. The app is intended to help ensure that people trying to open your phone when you’re asleep don’t unlock it. Last October, Google revealed it would carry out a feature to check that your eyes are open “in the coming months.”

“We have provided the monthly Android/Pixel update for April 2020. All supported Pixel devices running Android 10 will receive these software updates as part of the April 2020 OTA update, which begins rolling out to users today. We encourage you to check your Android version and update it to receive the latest features.”

Apple has already had a similar function in Face ID which requires open eyes since it was introduced as part of the iPhone X in 2017. This needs the smartphone owner to keep their eyes open to unlock while using the face unlock option, so they must look directly at their iPhone or iPad.

In addition to providing an open-eye function, this month’s Pixel 4 update also fixed issues related to dropped Bluetooth audio input when on-call and addresses delay while opening the keyboard for specific devices.

The modish ‘open-eye fix is available for:

• Pixel 2 (XL): QQ2A.200405.005
• Pixel 3 (XL): QQ2A.200405.005
• Pixel 3a (XL): QQ2A.200405.005
• Pixel 4 (XL): QQ2A.200405.005