iPhone 18 Pro Face ID Malfunctions Due to Matte Screen Protectors and Under-Screen Sensor Design

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Apple's iPhone 18 Pro series faces widespread Face ID failures when matte or frosted screen protectors are used, due to the new under-screen infrared sensor design. Users report device instability, failed biometric authentication, and disrupted Apple Pay access. The issue is confirmed by multiple tech reviewers and affects users globally.[AI generated]

Why's our monitor labelling this an incident or hazard?

The Face ID system is an AI system used for biometric authentication. The bug causes devices to freeze and reboot, which is a malfunction leading to harm by disrupting user access and device operation. The harm is direct and realized, not just potential. The report also mentions a related iOS 27 bug causing reboots, further indicating malfunction of AI-enabled systems. Apple suggesting hardware swaps and software updates indicates recognition of the AI system's role in the issue. Hence, this event meets the criteria for an AI Incident.[AI generated]
AI principles
Robustness & digital security

Industries
Consumer products

Affected stakeholders
Consumers

Harm types
Economic/Property

AI system task:
Recognition/object detection


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