If your Face ID isn’t working on your iPhone, it can be frustrating—especially if you rely on it to unlock your phone, authorize payments, or log into apps. But don’t worry! Most Face ID issues can be fixed with a few simple troubleshooting steps.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
– Common reasons why Face ID stops working
– Step-by-step solutions to fix Face ID
– When to contact Apple Support for help
Let’s get your Face ID back up and running!
Why Is Face ID Not Working?
There are several reasons why your Face ID might not be working properly. Some are simple fixes, while others may require deeper troubleshooting.
Here are the most common causes:
🔑 Dirt or Obstruction on the TrueDepth Camera – If your camera is blocked, Face ID won’t work.
💡 Lighting or Angle Issues – Face ID works best when your face is well-lit and positioned correctly.
🔄 Software Glitches or Outdated iOS – Bugs in iOS can sometimes cause Face ID to malfunction.
⚙️ Face ID Settings Have Changed – If Face ID was disabled accidentally, it won’t recognize your face.
📱 Hardware Damage – If your iPhone was dropped or repaired recently, the Face ID sensor might be damaged.
How to Fix Face ID on Your iPhone (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Clean the Face ID Camera (TrueDepth Camera)
Before trying anything complicated, check if something is blocking the Face ID camera:
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the front-facing camera area.
- Remove screen protectors or cases that might be covering the camera.
- Make sure your fingers aren’t blocking the camera while unlocking.
2. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can clear temporary glitches and get Face ID working again.
📌 To restart your iPhone:
1️⃣ Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up button (for iPhones with Face ID).
2️⃣ Swipe to power off your device.
3️⃣ Wait 30 seconds, then turn your phone back on.
Now, try using Face ID again to see if the issue is resolved.
3. Check Face ID Settings
If Face ID isn’t working, it might be disabled in settings. Let’s check:
📌 To enable Face ID:
1️⃣ Open Settings > Tap Face ID & Passcode.
2️⃣ Enter your passcode.
3️⃣ Make sure Face ID is turned on for the functions you need (Unlock iPhone, Apple Pay, Password AutoFill, etc.).
4. Reset Face ID & Set It Up Again
If your Face ID isn’t recognizing you, resetting it may help.
📌 To reset and re-register Face ID:
1️⃣ Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
2️⃣ Tap Reset Face ID.
3️⃣ Tap Set Up Face ID and follow the on-screen instructions.
✅ Pro Tip:
- Hold your phone at eye level when scanning your face.
- Make sure your face is well-lit and free of hats, sunglasses, or masks (unless you’re using Face ID with a mask).
5. Check for iOS Updates
Sometimes, software bugs can cause Face ID to stop working. Updating iOS can fix these issues.
📌 To check for updates:
1️⃣ Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
2️⃣ If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
Once your iPhone restarts, test Face ID again.
6. Reset All Settings (If Face ID Still Doesn’t Work)
If none of the above steps work, resetting all settings may fix the issue. This won’t delete your data, but it will reset things like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Face ID settings.
📌 To reset settings:
1️⃣ Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2️⃣ Tap Reset > Select Reset All Settings.
3️⃣ Enter your passcode and confirm.
Your phone will restart—set up Face ID again and test if it works.
When to Contact Apple Support
If Face ID still isn’t working, there may be a hardware issue. You should contact Apple Support if:
- Face ID stopped working after dropping your iPhone.
- Face ID isn’t available in your settings at all.
- You see an error message like “Face ID has been disabled”.
📌 How to contact Apple Support:
- Visit Apple’s Support Page.
- Book an appointment at the Apple Store for a repair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Face ID stop working suddenly?
It could be due to a software bug, dirt on the camera, or a setting change. Try cleaning the camera, restarting your iPhone, and updating iOS to fix it.
2. Can Face ID work if I wear glasses or a hat?
Yes! Face ID learns to recognize your face with glasses or hats. But if it’s not working, try re-registering your face with accessories on.
3. What should I do if Face ID is disabled after a repair?
If you recently had your iPhone’s screen or Face ID module repaired, Face ID might be permanently disabled. You’ll need to take it to Apple for official repair.
4. Can I use Face ID while wearing a mask?
Yes! Apple introduced Face ID with a Mask in iOS 15.4. Enable it in Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Face ID with a Mask.
5. My Face ID works but not for apps—why?
Make sure Face ID is enabled for specific apps:
1️⃣ Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
2️⃣ Under Use Face ID For, check if App Store, Wallet, and Password AutoFill are enabled.
Final Thoughts: Fixing Face ID on Your iPhone
If Face ID isn’t working, follow these steps to fix it:
- Clean the Face ID camera to remove dirt or obstructions.
- Restart your iPhone to clear software glitches.
- Check Face ID settings to make sure it’s enabled.
- Reset Face ID and set it up again.
- Update iOS to fix potential software bugs.
- Reset all settings if nothing else works.
🚨 If your Face ID still doesn’t work, it may be a hardware issue, and you should contact Apple Support for further assistance.