Google Pixel 11 Revives Pixel 4's Forgotten Feature – Here's What It Means for Users

Google’s Pixel 11, set for release in 2026, is rumored to bring back a feature last seen on the Pixel 4 from 2019: secure face unlocking. Google is reportedly considering an under-display infrared camera for the Pixel 11, which would allow for secure face unlock without any visible hardware.

The Pixel 4 required a large top bezel to house this technology, but the Pixel 11’s approach would be far more streamlined, embedding the IR camera beneath the display. This design choice reflects Google’s habit of revisiting and refining older features, and in this case, it offers users enhanced security in a sleeker, more modern form.

Incidentally, 2026 is also the year Apple is rumored to introduce under-display IR cameras for Face ID, aligning its approach with Google’s. The Pixel 11 lineup will reportedly be powered by Google’s custom-designed Tensor G6 chipset, which is expected to support infrared face unlock through an under-display IR camera.

While the Tensor G6’s support for this feature doesn’t guarantee it will be implemented, it’s a strong indication of Google’s intent. Since the Tensor G6 is specifically designed for Google’s smartphones, it would seem unlikely for Google to include this functionality if it had no plans to use it in the upcoming Pixel models.