Microsoft has acknowledged a specific issue affecting Windows 11 users that may hinder their ability to sign in via Windows Hello, particularly through facial recognition. This glitch, described by the company as an “edge case,” arises after the installation of a particular Windows 11 update, followed by either a Push button reset or the use of the Reset this PC feature with the option to Keep my Files and Local install selected.
In a support document, Microsoft elaborated on the situation: “We’re aware of an edge case of Windows Hello issue affecting devices with specific security features enabled. After installing this update and performing a Push button reset or Reset this PC from Settings > System > Recovery and selecting Keep my Files and Local install, some users might be unable to login to their Windows services using Windows Hello facial recognition or PIN. Users might observe a Windows Hello message saying “Something happened and your PIN isn’t available. Click to set up your PIN again” or “Sorry something went wrong with face setup.”
As of now, a definitive fix for the Windows Hello bug has not been released. However, users experiencing this issue can still access their devices by logging in with a PIN. Additionally, they have the option to reconfigure their facial recognition settings.
A passwordless future?
In its ongoing efforts to promote a passwordless environment, Microsoft encourages users to transition away from traditional passwords in favor of alternatives like passkeys. Windows Hello serves as one of the primary methods for authenticating identity without the need for a password. The tech giant has expressed its ambition to eliminate passwords entirely, recently revamping the login interface for Microsoft accounts to streamline the passwordless setup process.
While issues such as the Windows Hello glitch may raise questions about the viability of a passwordless future, it is important to note that users still have the option to sign in using a PIN, even if Windows Hello is temporarily unavailable. During the initial setup of Windows Hello, users are required to create a PIN, ensuring that they have a reliable fallback method for accessing their PCs should any complications arise with the facial recognition feature.
