Apple Face ID is not just crucial in unlocking your iPhone but also for authenticating your identity for services like Apple Pay, Wallet, autofill passwords, and more. You can even set it up to secure some third-party apps on your phone. Things can come to a screeching halt if Face ID stops working all of a sudden. If you’re struggling with making it work, you’ve landed on the right page. Here are the top 10 ways to fix the ‘Apple Face ID not working’ issue on your iPhone.
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In This Article
Why is Face ID not working?
Your iPhone’s Face ID may have stopped working due to one of these reasons.
- Grime and dirt collected on the TrueDepth sensor
- Something is obstructing the TrueDepth sensor
- Your face wasn’t in the frame while holding up the iPhone
- Face ID made 5 incorrect facial scans in a row
- Your iPhone wasn’t unlocked in 48 hours
- Your iPhone was put in Lost Mode
- Your iPhone was put in Emergency SOS mode
- You’re using an outdated iOS version
Make sure the camera is clean
Your iPhone relies on the front-facing TrueDepth camera to validate access using Face ID. If dust and grime settle on this sensor, they may cause irregularities in its functioning. Wipe the notch or Dynamic Island with a clean microfibre cloth and try unlocking your iPhone with Face ID. If the issue persists, move on to other fixes.
Remove the screen protector and case
Your iPhone’s screen protector can sometimes be a hindrance to the TrueDepth camera’s functioning. Poorly applied screen protectors are often the culprit in this scenario. You don’t want the glass to cover the area on the notch or the Dynamic Island. If that is the case, remove the screen protector and reapply it correctly. Make sure your iPhone’s case isn’t obstructing the notch either.
Restart your iPhone
Background glitches can often cause the Face ID on your iPhone to stop working. A simple restart can fix that. Press the side button along with any one of the volume buttons and drag the power slider across the screen. Once your iPhone has shut down, press and hold the side key to turn it on. You will need to enter your passcode to unlock your phone after it has restarted.
Make sure Face ID is enabled
Step 1: Go to Settings and select Face ID and Passcode.
Step 2: Make sure the toggle switch for Face ID is turned on. You can also enable Face ID for Apple services like Wallet, iTunes, Auto Fill, as well as other third-party apps.
Take off your sunglasses while using Face ID
Apple Face ID works fine if you’re wearing prescription glasses. The Infrared Camera, which resides in the front notch, is crucial in matching your eyes with the registered biometrics. However, it does not work if you’re wearing polarised sunglasses. Take your sunglasses off and try again.
Hold your iPhone at an optimum distance
To unlock your iPhone using Face ID, the framing has to be just right. Awkward angles can keep it from working as intended. The same is the case if you hold your iPhone too close to your face. If you want it to work swiftly, keep your phone in line with your face and at arm’s length.
Turn on the Mask setting for Face ID
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Apple introduced a setting that made Face ID work even if you’re wearing a face mask. Keep this setting turned on if you still wear masks or scarves that block the lower half of your face.
Step 1: Go to Settings and select Face ID and Passcode.
Step 2: Turn on the toggle switch for Face ID with a Mask.
Reset Face ID
Step 1: Go to Settings and select Face ID and Passcode.
Step 2: Tap on Reset Face ID.
Step 3: Go back to Face ID and Passcode.
Step 4: Hit Set up Face ID.
Step 5: Register your Face ID again.
Update your iPhone
If you’re using an older iOS version, update it to the latest version to fix the Face ID issue. Here’s how.
Step 1: Make sure your iPhone is connected to a WiFi network and plug in its charger.
Step 2: Go to Settings and select General.
Step 3: Select Software Update.
Step 4: Tap on Download and Install.
Reset your iPhone to its factory settings
Step 1: Go to Settings and select General.
Step 2: Tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 3: Hit Erase All Content And Settings.
Step 4: Tap on Continue and enter the passcode to reset your iPhone to its factory settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Face ID work with sunglasses?
Apple Face ID works with prescription glasses, contact lenses, and even some shades. However, if you’re wearing polarised sunglasses, you will need to take them off to gain access to your iPhone.
Does Face ID work with a face mask?
Go to Settings>Face ID and Passcode and turn on the toggle switch for ‘Face ID with a Mask’ to make sure it works when you’re wearing a surgical mask.
Can I set up 2 Face IDs on my iPhone?
Go to Settings>Face ID and Passcode and select ‘Set Up an Alternate Appearance’ to add support for another Face ID.
Why is Face ID not working on my phone?
Obstruction to the TrueDepth camera can cause Face ID to malfunction. Your iPhone also suspends Face ID when it is put in Lost Mode.
Why is my iPhone asking me to use my passcode instead of Face ID?
If your iPhone hasn’t been unlocked in 48 hours, you will be asked to use a passcode instead of Face ID.
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Conclusion
These are the top 10 ways to fix the Apple Face ID on your iPhone if it stops working. If you suspect the TrueDepth sensor on your iPhone is damaged, you will need to take your device to an authorised repair centre to get it replaced or fixed.
