The hopes for a face unlock feature on the Pixel 11 that could rival the iPhone's seem to be all but over.

      Google’s Pixel 11 might miss the anticipated Face ID-like enhancement that fans were hoping for.

      It seems Google’s return to face unlock has faced yet another setback. A recent leak regarding the Pixel 11 series indicates that Project Toscana, the rumored infrared face unlock system, is unlikely to appear in the Pixel 11 lineup due to its unprepared state for launch.

      This feature was anticipated to provide future Pixel models with a competitive edge against Apple’s Face ID. Previous reports suggested that Project Toscana underwent testing across both Pixel devices and Chromebooks, showcasing Face ID-like speed alongside improved low-light operation. However, the recent leak indicates that Pixel users might have to wait until after the 2026 series for this enhancement.

      Is Google postponing its Face ID competitor once again?

      According to the latest leak about the Pixel 11, the answer is yes. Project Toscana is now considered unlikely to make its debut within the Pixel 11 series, despite reports of Google testing this system for several months.

      The system was characterized as an iPhone-style face unlock solution using a combination of near-infrared sensors and possibly under-display infrared technology. It aimed to enhance speed, security, and low-light unlocking, where Apple’s Face ID continues to excel.

      Google previously attempted to integrate a robust face unlock feature in Pixel phones. The Pixel 4 series employed specialized hardware, including Soli radar, to detect when a user was reaching for the device and to initiate face authentication before the display was fully on. Google claimed the system functioned in nearly any orientation and could be utilized for secure payments and app logins.

      However, the feature encountered significant issues soon after its release. Users discovered that the Pixel 4 could unlock even when the user’s eyes were shut, raising security alarms. Following this, Google provided an update mandating an “eyes open” requirement but subsequently moved away from dedicated 3D face unlock hardware after the Pixel 4 generation.

      Why does this disappointment Pixel supporters?

      More recent Pixel models have reintroduced face unlock in a limited capacity. Project Toscana appeared to be Google’s opportunity to fill that gap and provide a hardware-supported face unlock solution in future devices.

      The same leak still indicates various hardware updates for the Pixel 11. The series is anticipated to feature the Tensor G6 chip, advanced cameras, brighter OLED screens, a MediaTek M90 modem, and an RGB LED array in the camera bar on the Pro models. It also suggests that the thermometer might be excluded from the Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

      While the postponement is disheartening, a rushed launch would be more detrimental. Face unlock is not merely a convenience when linked to payments, banking apps, and device safety. If Project Toscana needs additional time, it is preferable for it to debut with the next Pixel generation rather than being deployed in a half-prepared state. It should only be released when it functions flawlessly and uprightly ensures privacy and security.