Face ID is a feature that we heavily rely on as iPhone users to unlock devices, authenticate payment, and log in to apps. When the feature does not work as expected, this can be very frustrating. We will look at various solutions in this article to fix the Face ID problem on your iPhone.
Check your iPhone’s settings
Before you begin troubleshooting your iPhone, make sure that the settings are configured correctly.
Face ID must be enabled
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap ‘FaceID & Passcode’.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Check to see if ‘iPhone Unlock’, ‘iTunes & AppStore’, ‘Apple Pay’, and ‘Password AutoFill” are enabled.
Reset the Face ID and Set it Up Again
If Face ID is set up but not working for you, reset it and try again.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap ‘FaceID & Passcode’.
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Click on “Reset FaceID”. You will be able to delete all of your Face ID data.
- Follow the instructions on screen to reset Face ID.
Check Your iPhone Hardware
Face ID uses the TrueDepth front-facing camera on your iPhone to recognize your facial features. It’s important to check for any possible hardware problems that could be causing your problem.
Check the TrueDepth Camera
- Make sure that the TrueDepth sensor and infrared sensors at the top are not covered by dirt or debris. If necessary, clean the area with a soft lint free cloth.
- Check that the sensor or camera is not blocked by a screen protector, case or other accessory.
Check Camera Function
- Open the Camera app and select the front-facing lens.
- Check that the camera is working properly and can capture clear images. Apple Support can help you if there is a problem with the hardware of your camera.
Update the iPhone software with
Face ID issues can be caused by outdated software. Verify that your iPhone runs the latest version iOS.
- Open ‘Settings” on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and click on “General”.
- Click on the ‘Software Upgrade’ button.
- Tap on the ‘Download and install’ button to update your iPhone.
Reset all settings
Resetting your iPhone’s settings may fix the problem if the problem persists. This will reset your iPhone’s default settings, but it won’t remove your data or apps.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and click on “General”.
- Scroll down and click on “Reset”.
- Enter your passcode and confirm the reset by tapping on ‘Reset all settings’.
Check for Physical Damage
You may have damaged internal components such as the TrueDepth system if you dropped your iPhone recently or exposed it in water. It’s best to make an appointment at an Apple Store or authorized service provider in this case for a professional evaluation and repair.
Contact Apple Support
Apple Support can help you if all else fails. You can determine whether your iPhone is experiencing a hardware problem or if the issue is software-related.
- Visit the Apple Support website and sign in with your Apple ID.
- Choose your iPhone from the list.
- Click on the ‘Face ID and Passcode’ category or another similar issue.
- Apple Support can be reached via phone, email, chat or the instructions onscreen.
Conclusion
Face ID not working properly on your iPhone is a frustrating issue. You can restore Face ID functionality by following the instructions in this article. Check your iPhone settings, the TrueDepth Camera, update your software, reset all settings and check for any physical damage. Apple Support can provide further assistance if none of the solutions above work.