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Face Recognition Module: Mobile Phone Spares
The face recognition module — known as the TrueDepth camera system on iPhone and as an IR face unlock system on various Android devices — uses hardware sensors to map and authenticate the user's face. It is a high-value, high-complexity assembly, and replacement in Nairobi typically means a premium repair cost.
How the Module Works
Apple's TrueDepth module, used for Face ID on iPhones from the iPhone X onward, projects a grid of infrared dots onto the user's face using a dot projector, captures the distorted dot pattern with an infrared camera, and uses a neural engine to compare the 3D face map against the enrolled template. This requires precise optical alignment between the dot projector and IR camera — which is why Apple pairs the module to the device and requires recalibration if any component is replaced.
Android face unlock systems vary widely. Premium Huawei and Samsung devices have used structured light systems similar to Apple's, while most Android phones at the mid-range level use the front camera for 2D face recognition — a less secure method that does not require specialised hardware.
Replacement Challenges
For iPhones, a TrueDepth module replacement outside of Apple's official process will disable Face ID permanently — the replacement sensor will not be recognised as trusted by the Secure Enclave. Navigation and basic camera functions will work, but biometric authentication will not. In Nairobi, only Apple-authorised service centres can perform this repair while retaining Face ID.
Pricing
iPhone TrueDepth assembly (front camera and sensor bar): KES 6,000 to KES 18,000 depending on model, with Face ID functionality restoration only through authorised repair. Android IR face module assemblies: KES 2,000 to KES 6,000 for devices using structured light systems.
