Nokia launches a new app that will allow people to easily unlock their phones by using their faces as their passwords. Facelock is a Symbian 3 based Nokia application that saves people from remembering their security codes because all they need is to get a close picture of themselves.

In order to use the application, you need to own a Nokia phone with Symbian 3 OS. You have to take a picture of your face and save it as your password. Then when you want to unlock your phone, the camera will load up automatically to capture a picture of you and match it with the code. If the pictures are compatible, then you can unlock your phone instantly.

Advantages of Facelock

The main advantage that we can associate with this application is the convenience of remembering passwords. Your face is your own security code so definitely, no one can use your phone without your permission.

Facelock is also a sign of a good technological development. With this application on the market, developers will most probably create and develop newer and better applications. Who knows, we might have laser eye reader applications in the near future?

Disadvantages of Facelock

Just like any other new applications, Facelock has its own flaws and functions that need more development. Ewan Spence, from Symbian.com, shared his thoughts on using the application.

“The big issue is that this isn't a face scanner per se, but a photo analyser. That means even when looking at the same face, with the same smile, in the same physical location, a change in the lighting conditions is enough to completely throw the system off.” He mentioned.

If that’s the case, then it can be hard to match pictures since it’s difficult to get the same lighting, angles, and picture in one shot.

“I get the feeling that Facelock is in the App Store not to get lots of downloads, but to get noticed. First by people looking to do cool things with their phone (and get their feedback) but also to get the attention of the industry. This is pretty much what you expect from a tech demo.” says Spence.