While there isn't a built-in iOS feature to lock individual apps directly with Face ID, you can use a workaround involving the Shortcuts app to achieve a similar effect by forcing the app to close and requiring you to unlock your phone again.
Utilizing the Shortcuts App for App Locking
A common method involves creating a personal automation within the Shortcuts app. This automation is designed to trigger a specific action whenever you open certain applications. The action forces your device back to the lock screen, requiring you to authenticate (using Face ID or your passcode) to regain access.
Based on the video reference, here's the general concept of this workaround:
- Create a Shortcut/Automation: You set up an automation that runs when you open a specific app (like Photos or Instagram, as shown in the reference).
- Define the Action: The automation includes an action that immediately redirects you to the lock screen or closes the app in a way that triggers the lock screen.
- Name the Shortcut: As seen in the reference, the shortcut might be named something like "iOS lock".
- App Trigger: Once set up, whenever you attempt to open one of the designated apps, the shortcut is triggered.
- Return to Lock Screen: The shortcut's action forces you back to the lock screen.
- Face ID Authentication: To use the app (or any part of your phone), you must authenticate via Face ID (or passcode) to unlock the phone again.
Essentially, this method doesn't lock the app itself but rather creates an automated interruption that requires you to unlock your entire phone whenever you try to access a designated app.
How This Uses Face ID
This workaround leverages Face ID because unlocking your iPhone after being sent to the lock screen is primarily done using Face ID. By forcing a lock screen state upon opening a protected app, you indirectly gate access behind your device's primary security measure, which is Face ID (if enabled).
Steps Overview (Conceptual based on reference):
- Go to the Shortcuts app.
- Create a new Automation (Personal Automation).
- Select the trigger "App" and choose the specific apps you want to lock (e.g., Photos, Instagram).
- Add an action that effectively sends you back to the home screen or lock screen (e.g., "Go to Home Screen" followed by "Lock Screen").
- Name the shortcut (e.g., "iOS lock").
- Ensure the automation is active.
Now, whenever you try to open one of the chosen apps, the automation will run, and you will need to use Face ID to unlock your phone again before you can proceed.
This method provides a layer of security by preventing immediate access, requiring re-authentication through the standard phone unlock process.
