This is the English edition of a review from my Japanese YouTube channel, iestaLife. I review gadgets from my home studio in Japan, so product links go to Amazon Japan.
Quick take
On iPhone 18 Pro launch day, people were reporting that anti-glare screen protectors stopped Face ID from working. I tested two Monster Film anti-glare glass protectors (a Japanese brand) on my iPhone 18 Pro — plain anti-glare, and anti-glare with blue-light cut. Face ID unlocked the phone normally with both. I also checked the plain version with Apple’s own case on, and it was fine.
What I tested
- Monster Film anti-glare, Face ID compatible, for iPhone 18 Pro / 17 Pro (B1796)
- Monster Film anti-glare + blue-light cut, Face ID compatible (B1803 — the link in my description is the 18 Pro Max / 17 Pro Max version)
- Both applied to the same iPhone 18 Pro (the plain one also with Apple’s case)
What I found
- Plain anti-glare: Face ID worked straight away, including unlocking from a locked state. Still fine with Apple’s case fitted.
- Anti-glare + blue-light cut: Face ID worked too.
- Applying is easy with the included guide frame: fit the frame, pull the tab, wait 30 seconds, slide the next tab, remove the frame. A couple of small bubbles pushed out, or came out after lifting and re-laying the film.
- My one mistake: I didn’t push the guide frame fully into place on the second film, and it started to go on crooked. Seat the frame all the way first.
- The finish is smooth and silky, and fingerprints barely show.
Who it’s for
Anyone who wants a matte, low-glare screen on an iPhone 18 Pro or 17 Pro without giving up Face ID. Both packs contain two protectors.
Watch the review
The video is in Japanese; YouTube can show auto-generated captions. Useful chapters: 00:46 applying, 01:29 Face ID test, 01:56 Apple case and swapping to the blue-light version, 03:27 Face ID with blue-light cut, 04:42 feel and fingerprints.
Limitations
This was a quick test on launch day with one phone. I only tested these two Monster Film protectors, so I can’t say whether other anti-glare protectors cause Face ID problems. Monster Film’s staff contacted me about the protectors before I filmed. Monster Film is a Japanese brand and may not ship to every region.
Products
Monster Film anti-glare, Face ID compatible, iPhone 18 Pro / 17 Pro (B1796): on Amazon Japan
Monster Film anti-glare + blue-light cut, Face ID compatible, iPhone 18 Pro Max / 17 Pro Max (B1803): on Amazon Japan
The Amazon Japan links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Check the listing for the exact model, current price and shipping availability in your region.
More reviews in English
All Screen & Lens Protectors (27) →Browse all English reviews →
This review is also available in Japanese.