How to Fix Face ID Not Working on iPhone

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One of the standout features Apple introduced in its button-free iPhones since the release of the iPhone X is Face ID. This feature replaced Touch ID, which had been present on all iPhones from the iPhone 5s through the 8 series. Setting it up is simple, requiring only that the user look into their device. Once set up, Face ID allows users to unlock their iPhone by simply holding the phone up to their face for the sensors to recognize. When functioning correctly, Face ID can discern the user even when wearing glasses, a hat, makeup, or a beard.

However, as with any technology, there may be instances when Face ID doesn’t work as expected on your iPhone. Follow the steps in this article to resolve make the face ID work on your iphone.

 

1. Restart your iPhone

Often, a straightforward solution can resolve even the most intricate problems, and this applies to Face ID issues as well. If you encounter Face ID not functioning properly, the initial step is to restart your iPhone. To do this, simply press and hold the side button and either volume button until the power off slider shows up on the screen. Swipe the slider, wait for 30 seconds, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. After your iPhone restarts, you’ll need to input your passcode, so give Face ID another try once you’ve done so.

 

2. Update your iPhone

It’s also important to look into whether your iPhone has any pending software updates. Neglecting to update your iPhone means not only missing out on new features but also on bug fixes and performance enhancements. Here’s how to check for available software updates on your iPhone:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap on General.
  3. Select Software Update.
  4. Tap on Install Now or Download and Install.
  5. After your iPhone restarts, unlock it using your passcode for the first time, then verify if Face ID is functioning.

 

3. Clean the TrueDepth Camera Sensor

As time passes, the TrueDepth camera lens might accumulate dirt or grease. Utilize a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the sensor array located at the top to prevent any obstructions. Certain robust cases and thick screen protectors might partially cover the sensors, causing Face ID accuracy issues, hence it’s advisable to contemplate removing them.

 

4. Verify your Face ID settings

If Face ID seems ineffective for specific tasks, like purchases or password autofill, it’s advisable to review your settings to ensure all necessary features are enabled. Here’s how you can do that:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Scroll down and tap on Face ID & Passcode.
  3. Enter your passcode on the subsequent screen.
  4. Confirm that all desired features for Face ID usage are switched on.
  5. Tap on Other Apps.
  6. Enable Face ID for specific applications.

While in the Face ID settings, you have the option to activate Face ID with a Mask if you need to unlock your iPhone while wearing one. If Face ID isn’t functioning while wearing sunglasses, consider disabling Require Attention for Face ID. This feature typically requires your eyes to be visible for Face ID to unlock, which can be hindered by certain sunglasses. Deactivating this setting can resolve such issues.

 

2. Enable Face ID for Third-Party Apps

Your preferred third-party applications, such as those for banking, payment, and messaging, may incorporate Face ID for authentication during login. If you previously denied an app permission to utilize Face ID, you’ll be prompted to enter your device’s passcode each time instead.

Here’s how to activate Face ID for a compatible third-party app:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Scroll down and select Face ID & Passcode.
  3. Towards the bottom of the “Use Face ID For” section, tap on Other Apps.
  4. Ensure that the toggle switch for the relevant app, such as WhatsApp, is turned ON.

Alternatively, navigate to the desired app within the Settings app (e.g., Settings > WhatsApp) and verify if Face ID has been enabled.

 

Ensure the front camera is unobstructed

Because Face ID relies on the TrueDepth camera to recognize your face, any obstruction or covering over the front camera might impede its function. Smudges or dirt on the screen could hinder Face ID, so clean your iPhone and attempt to use it again.

Certain types of screen protectors or cases might block the camera, so removing them and checking if the issue is resolved is advisable.

Face ID may not function if your nose and mouth are covered, unless you’ve configured Face ID with a Mask. In such cases, you might need to hold the iPhone slightly higher than usual. Additionally, ensure there are no obstructions to your eyes when wearing a mask. To rule out issues caused by facial coverings, remove any masks and sunglasses to test Face ID.

For older iPhone models, Face ID is only operational in portrait orientation. Landscape mode Face ID support is exclusive to iPhone 13 and later models, and even in this scenario, it may not work if you’re wearing a mask.

 

Reset Face ID

If none of the troubleshooting steps prove effective, you can consider resetting Face ID as a final option. This action will erase all Face ID data, necessitating the setup of Face ID anew.

Here’s how to reset Face ID:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap on Face ID & Passcode.
  3. Enter your passcode.
  4. Tap on Reset Face ID.

Subsequently, you can tap on Set Up Face ID on the same screen and proceed to follow the prompts to re-establish it. If necessary, configure Face ID with a Mask after completing this step. Test unlocking your phone to check if Face ID is functioning. If not, there may be a hardware issue with your iPhone.

 

6. Hold Your iPhone Properly

For optimal use of Face ID, ensure you hold your iPhone or iPad at a comfortable distance—neither too far nor too close to your face. Face ID functions most effectively when held at arm’s length or closer (approximately 10-20 inches or 25–50 centimeters). If you inadvertently cover or block the Face ID sensors, such as with your finger, a “Camera covered” message will appear, indicating the obstruction of the TrueDepth camera.

Face ID functionality extends to both portrait and landscape orientations. However, only iPhone models 13 or newer running iOS 16 or later support Face ID in landscape mode. Regarding the Face ID with a mask feature, it is compatible solely with portrait mode on iPhone 12 and later models running iOS 15.4 or newer.

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