There are two ways to unlock your iPhone – Passcode and Face ID. While passcodes are the old-school and reliable method to unlock the device, the majority of users prefer Face ID because of its seamless operation and ease of use. Sometimes, your iPhone may throw ‘A Problem Was Detected With the TrueDepth Camera’ error message while you’re trying to unlock it. Some users may wonder what a TrueDepth Camera even is. If you’re caught in the same confusion, this article will address your queries and suggest some possible fixes.
In This Article
What does the TrueDepth Camera do?
When you see the ‘problem detected with the TrueDepth camera’ error message on your iPhone, you might wonder what the TrueDepth camera even is. Well, the answer is quite simple. The TrueDepth Camera is a collective term used for the front camera, infrared camera, dot projector and other proximity sensors. These components are located on the notch of your iPhone’s display. The newer iPhones house them in the ‘Dynamic Island’.
As you can guess by now, the TrueDepth Camera maps a 3D image of your face using thousands of dot particles. The 3D scan is matched with the image of your face captured by the front camera to verify your identity. This is the mechanism behind the Face ID on your iPhone. The TrueDepth Camera is also the reason why someone cannot unlock your iPhone simply by putting up your picture in front of the lock screen. Apart from Face ID, the TrueDepth Camera is also used for Memojis and Portrait Mode.
Wipe the camera area
The first thing you should do when you come across any error related to the TrueDepth camera is wipe the front camera panel with a clean microfibre cloth. Oftentimes, dirt and dust particles collect on the sensors and the dot projector, causing a failure to read your face accurately. The TrueDepth camera relies on the infrared dots to create a 3D map of your face. Any smudges or dirt on the sensor can cause it to malfunction. A quick wipe should solve this problem.
Remove any screen protection
Incorrectly installed tempered glass or other forms of screen protection can mess with the functioning of the TrueDepth camera. If the glass is hindering the camera cutout, it can cause unnecessary glare. Your phone may not be able to map your face correctly, leading to the TrueDepth camera error. Take off the screen protector and install it correctly. Make sure you only use Apple-authorised products to protect your iPhone’s display.
Restart your iPhone
So, you’ve wiped the front camera panel and removed the screen protector but the problem still won’t go away? It is likely that your hardware isn’t at fall. Software glitches are quite common on mobile devices and your iPhone is no exception. Luckily, these glitches can be quickly resolved by restarting your phone. Press and hold the side button and any volume key to reveal the power menu on your iPhone. Use the power slider to turn off your device. Wait for a few seconds and use the side key to restart your device.
Update your iPhone
If the problem lies with your iPhone’s software, it can be quickly fixed by updating your device. Here’s how you can go about it.
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 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.
Reset all settings
Step 1: Go to Settings and select General.
Step 2: Tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 3: Hit Reset.
Step 4: Select Reset All Settings. Enter the passcode to confirm your decision.
Factory reset your iPhone
Resetting your iPhone to its factory settings restores its OS to out-of-the-box condition. However, it erases all the content on your phone along with your personal data.
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)
Can I have 2 Face IDs on my iPhone?
Yes, you can have a maximum of 2 different Face IDs on your iPhone.
Why is the Face ID on my iPhone not working?
If you can’t unlock your iPhone using Face ID, clean the front camera panel and make sure there is nothing obstructing your face.
How does Face ID work?
Using the TrueDepth Camera, your iPhone is able to render a 3D scan of your face and judge that it is actually you who is trying to unlock the phone instead of someone holding up your picture.
What causes problems with the TrueDepth camera on the iPhone?
The TrueDepth camera on your iPhone can malfunction due to the collection of dust and grime on the notch/Dynamic Island, faulty screen protector, and background software issues.
How to clean the TrueDepth camera?
Use a clean microfibre cloth to clean the notch/Dynamic Island on your iPhone. This will provide better visibility to the TrueDepth camera.
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Conclusion
These are the top 5 ways to fix ‘A Problem was Detected with the TrueDepth Camera’ issue on your iPhone. If these fixes do not work for you, take your iPhone to an Apple Repair Centre for further diagnosis. Make sure your personal data is backed up before checking your phone in for repair.
