For years, Pixel users have relied on fingerprint unlock when face recognition failed in low light. That may soon change. A new report claims Google is working on a major upgrade to its face unlock system for the Pixel 11 lineup and future Chromebooks. Inside the company, the effort reportedly goes by the codename Project Toscana.
According to a source who tested the feature, the new system does not require any extra visible sensors on Pixel phones. The front design resembles that of the Pixel 10. However, the real changes happen under the display.
Most importantly, the upgraded face unlock is said to perform just as well in low ambient light as it does in daylight. That marks a meaningful improvement. Current camera-based systems often struggle in low-light conditions or dimly lit rooms.
It is still unclear whether Google uses infrared technology like Apple’s Face ID. If it does, the infrared components appear to sit beneath the display panel. Interestingly, Apple is also rumored to move its Face ID hardware under the screen in the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Both companies seem focused on cleaner front designs without visible sensor cutouts.
Reports last year suggested that Google planned to bring IR-based face unlocking to the Pixel 11 family. This latest leak strongly points in that direction. If accurate, Project Toscana could represent a shift toward more secure and consistent biometric authentication.
The same report adds another detail. Google is also testing this technology on select Chromebooks. That suggests a broader strategy. Instead of limiting advanced biometrics to smartphones, Google may extend it across multiple device categories.
The source further claims the system unlocks as quickly as Apple’s Face ID on iPhones. That comparison matters. Apple’s solution remains one of the fastest and most reliable in the market.
Of course, Pixel devices already include a fingerprint scanner. Users can still unlock their phones that way. However, a dependable face unlock system provides flexibility. More importantly, it works regardless of the lighting conditions around you.
