Google is testing a new privacy feature in its Chrome browser for iOS that can lock incognito tabs behind Face ID. Apple’s facial recognition system is used to secure an iPhone or iPad, but many apps have their own Face ID support for added security. Google has started testing securing incognito tabs behind Face ID in the latest Chrome iOS beta, indicating it should be arriving to mainstream users in the coming months.
Update notes for the latest Chrome 89 beta on iOS show that “when you return to the Chrome app, your Incognito tabs will be faded until you confirm it’s you.” You can enable this feature in the privacy section of Chrome’s settings, but it looks like this feature is in an early testing phase as not even every beta tester has access yet.
Chrome 89 is expected to debut in early March, but it’s not clear whether Face ID support will be ready in time. Google also supports Touch ID, for older devices. This feature is similar to Samsung’s Secret Mode in its mobile browser, which allows users to lock tabs with facial recognition or fingerprints.