Could the Pixel 11 win over iPhone fans with ‘Project Toscana’?

Face facts, Google has some catching up to do

Updated: Mar 4, 2026 12:26 pm

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There’s absolutely no doubt that iPhones are highly intuitive. That’s been the brief since the first model arrived in 2007, and the experience starts with unlocking your device. Unfortunately for Android, Apple has led the way in face unlocking since 2017. But could that change with Pixel 11?

‘Project Toscana’ face unlock rumor

According to an anonymous source (per Android Authority), Google appears to be acutely aware of the immediate advantage iPhones have with Face ID. That’s not imagined: it is pretty clear that Apple’s face unlock system is easy to use, quick, and reliable. And that’s what you want when you go to your smartphone for secure and speedy access.

However, Google’s awareness is reportedly manifesting itself in ‘Project Toscana’. According to the anonymous leak, Toscana is a new advanced face unlock system. Allegedly, it’s being designed for Pixel phones and Google’s Chromebooks.

Further, it’s reported that Google has been testing Toscana with UX testers in Mountain View, California. And that it has been tested in various lighting conditions. The results? The leak suggests it’s just as fast as Apple’s Face ID system.

A Pixel 11 Face ID alternative?

The next question, then, is “when may it arrive?” The Pixel 11 seems a potential home for a new Google face unlock technology. That would make sense, particularly in response to Apple’s reported upgrade of its own TrueDepth system for Face ID in the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup.

While this all seems speculative right now, it would…

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