Windows Hello facial recognition in Windows 11 no longer works in dark rooms due to a security update by Microsoft, requiring a color camera to see a visible face for enhanced security.
This change, implemented in the April update, prevents logins in low-light conditions as the feature now relies on the camera capturing a visible face, unlike the previous reliance on the infrared sensor.
Microsoft addressed a vulnerability that could have allowed an attacker to bypass Windows Hello protection by manipulating the infrared camera, hence the security measure to mandate a color camera.
Despite a workaround where users can disable the webcam in Windows 11 to enable Windows Hello authentication through the infrared sensor, this solution is not ideal as it may expose users to potential exploits.
Disabling the webcam limits its functionality for activities like video chatting, making the workaround impractical for regular use.