How to Fix Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro Face Unlock Not Working Issue

The Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are highly anticipated smartphones that offer a range of advanced features, including the convenient Face Unlock functionality. However, some users have reported issues with the Face Unlock feature not working properly on their devices. This can be frustrating, as Face Unlock is not only used for unlocking the device but also for tasks like authentication and making payments. In this guide, we will explore some effective solutions to fix the Face Unlock not working issue on the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.

1. Clean the Front-facing Camera Sensors

If your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro is experiencing issues with Face Unlock, it’s possible that there may be dirt or lint on the front-facing camera sensors. This can interfere with the sensors’ ability to detect and recognize your face. To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

1. Use a microfiber cloth or any soft cloth to gently wipe the front camera and face recognition sensors.
2. Ensure that the camera and sensors are clean and free from any obstructions.
3. Test the Face Unlock feature again to see if the issue has been resolved.

2. Restart Your Device

Sometimes, a temporary glitch in the system can cause the Face Unlock feature to stop working. Restarting your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro can help resolve this issue. Follow these steps to restart your device:

1. Press and hold the Power and Volume Up buttons simultaneously for a few seconds.
2. A menu with four options will appear: Power off, Restart, Screenshot, and Emergency.
3. Select the Restart option and wait for your device to reboot.
4. Once your device has restarted, check if the Face Unlock feature is functioning properly.

3. Disable and Re-setup Face Unlock

If the issue persists, you can try disabling and re-setting up the Face Unlock feature on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro. This process can help resolve any configuration issues that may be causing the problem. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Navigate to the Security section and select Face Unlock.
3. Enter your passcode or pattern if prompted.
4. Disable the screen lock and then select Face Unlock again.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Face Unlock.
6. After re-setting up Face Unlock, restart your device to see if the issue has been resolved.

4. Reboot Your Device in Safe Mode

If the Face Unlock issue persists, it’s possible that a third-party app or software glitch is causing the problem. Booting your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro into safe mode can help determine if this is the case. Safe mode allows your device to run with only the essential system apps, bypassing any potentially problematic third-party apps. Follow these steps to reboot your device in safe mode:

1. Press and hold the Power button until the Power off option appears.
2. Press and hold the Power off option until the “Reboot to safe mode” menu appears.
3. Tap “OK” to confirm and wait for your device to reboot in safe mode.
4. In safe mode, test the Face Unlock feature to see if it works properly.
5. If the issue is resolved in safe mode, it may be caused by a recently downloaded app. Remove recently downloaded apps one by one and restart your device after each removal to identify the problematic app.

5. Perform a Factory Reset

If all else fails, performing a factory reset on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro can help resolve the Face Unlock not working issue. However, it’s important to note that a factory reset will erase all data on your device, so make sure to back up any important files before proceeding. Here’s how to perform a factory reset:

1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Go to the System section and select Reset options.
3. Choose the option to Erase all data.
4. Enter your passcode and tap “Erase everything” to confirm.
5. Wait for your device to reboot and then set up the Face Unlock feature again.
6. Test the Face Unlock feature to see if it is functioning properly.

6. Enhancing Face Unlock Performance

To enhance the performance of the Face Unlock feature on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, you can try registering your face explicitly under low-lighting conditions. This can help the device recognize your face more accurately in low-light situations, reducing the need to increase the display’s brightness to the maximum level. By following this tweak, you can ensure that the Face Unlock feature works smoothly both during the day and at night.

7. The Security of Face Unlock

The Face Unlock system on the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro meets the Android Class 3 biometric standard, which is considered the strongest standard for face unlocking on Android devices. While the system is highly secure, it’s important to note that no security measure is completely infallible. There is a slight chance that a 3D replica of your face could unlock the device, and someone else’s face could potentially unlock it 1 in 50,000 times. However, the security level provided by Face Unlock is generally considered reliable for everyday use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are facing issues with the Face Unlock feature on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem. These include cleaning the front-facing camera sensors, restarting your device, disabling and re-setting up Face Unlock, rebooting your device in safe mode, and performing a factory reset as a last resort. Additionally, registering your face explicitly under low-lighting conditions can enhance the performance of Face Unlock in such situations. By following these steps, you can ensure that the Face Unlock feature on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro works reliably and securely.