How to Fix Face ID Not Working Problem in iPhone



Featured on the iPhone X, Apple introduced one of the most futuristic methods of unlocking the device, Face ID. Apple users are proud to show off their iPhone's ability to unlock with facial recognition. However, some users are facing the issue where Face ID is not working on iPhone X, 11, or iPhone 12.


If you are one of the users facing facial recognition issues on your iPhone, you have landed on the right page. In this article, you will discover some tried & tested ways to fix if Face ID is having issues with your iPhone.

You may face an issue where the facial recognition system stops working and there could be several reasons for that.


1. iPhone users don't really enjoy masks as Face ID doesn't work to its full potential.

2. Face ID may not work if you have significantly changed your appearance.

3. If the TrueDepth camera is having problems reading your face, your Face ID may not work.

4. If you have installed a screen protector or bad-tempered glass, it can cause problems.

5. Using an older version of iOS can also cause problems with facial recognition.

Fix Face ID Not Working on an iPhone.

If you haven’t already set up a Face ID on your iPhone, here is how to do it:

1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

2: Navigate and tap on ‘Face ID & Passcode’. Enter your passcode if prompted. 

3: Tap on ‘Set Up Face ID’

4: Hold your device in front of your face in good lighting conditions and tap on ‘Get Started’.
5: Complete the scan and tap on ‘Continue’. 

Complete the entire process by following the on-screen instructions. You might be asked to add a passcode too if you haven’t added one already. 

Once your Face ID is set up, you should not get any problems with facial recognition. 

Restart Your iPhone 

Well, if there’s anything that restarts can’t fix. That’s quite right actually. If you are facing any lags, or issues on your iPhone, restarting it is the best way to get rid of them. This might also fix the Face ID not working issue. All you have to do is just restart your iPhone and see if the issue is resolved or not. 
Install the Latest Updates
Using an older version of iOS can cause this issue. In that case, you are supposed to install the latest updates. Here is how to check for updates and install them:

1: Open Settings on your iPhone.

2: Navigate and tap on ‘General’. 

3: Now tap on ‘Software Update’. 

4: If there is a new update tap on ‘Download and install’. 

You might get a message asking to temporarily remove apps because the software needs more space for the update, tap Continue. Don’t worry, iOS or iPadOS will automatically reinstall apps that it removed. You can also do this on your own. 

5: To update your iPhone immediately, tap on ‘Install’.  

Complete the process of installing the software update on your iPhone. Always make sure that your iPhone is running on the latest iOS version. 

Change Your Screen Protector 

Make sure you don't arbitrarily install or add your screen protector carelessly, maybe Apple has designed it specifically. And it's possible that your protective screen is interfering with your iPhone's Face ID sensor.

Ensure Face ID Settings are Correct 

An incorrect setting can stop facial recognition from working properly. To fix it, make sure that your Face ID settings are correct.

Here’s how to check:

1: Open Settings on your iPhone. 

2: Tap on ‘Face ID & Passcode’. 

3: Here check if the Face ID is set up in the first place. 

4: If the Face ID is set up, make sure that you have turned on the toggles to use it for iPhone Unlock, iTunes & App Store, Apple Pay, and Password Autofill. 


Setup an Alternate Appearance 


1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

2: Navigate and tap on ‘Face ID & Passcode’. Enter your passcode if prompted. 

3: Tap on ‘Set Up an Alternate Appearance’. 

Complete the process of setting up another Face ID. 


Reset Face ID

If the above method isn’t working for you, you can just completely remove all the previous Face ID data and add a new one.

Here is how:

1: Open Settings.

2: Navigate and tap on ‘Face ID & Passcode’. Enter your passcode if prompted.

3: Here, tap on ‘Reset Face ID’. 

4: After that, tap on ‘Set Up Face ID’. 

Follow all the on-screen instructions and set up your Face ID. 

FAQ: How to Fix Face ID Not Working Problem in iPhone


1. What should I do if Face ID is not recognizing my face?

Ensure that your face is fully visible to the TrueDepth camera. Remove any obstructions like glasses or masks.
Check if your iPhone is running the latest iOS version. Update if necessary.

2. Why is Face ID not working after an iOS update?

Sometimes, updates can cause temporary issues. Restart your iPhone to see if that resolves the problem. If not, you may need to reset your Face ID settings.

3. How can I reset my Face ID?

Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode. Enter your passcode, then tap Reset Face ID. After that, set it up again.

4. What if my Face ID is disabled?

If Face ID is disabled, you might see a message indicating that you need to enter your passcode. Make sure to enter the correct passcode first to re-enable Face ID.

5. Can low lighting affect Face ID functionality?

Yes, very low light can impact Face ID performance. Try to use Face ID in a well-lit environment for better results.

6. What should I do if my iPhone is unable to set up Face ID?

Ensure that the front camera is not obstructed or damaged. If it is, consider visiting an Apple Store or authorized service provider.

7. How can I check if my TrueDepth camera is working?

Open the Camera app and switch to the front camera. If you can see yourself clearly, the TrueDepth camera is functioning.

8. Is it possible to use Face ID with a mask?

If you're wearing a mask, you can enable the "Use Face ID with a Mask" option in Settings > Face ID & Passcode. This feature is available on newer iPhone models.

9. What if Face ID still doesn't work after trying all these steps?

If none of the solutions work, consider contacting Apple Support for further assistance or visiting an Apple Store for a diagnostic check.

10. Can Face ID be affected by changes in appearance?

Yes, significant changes like haircuts, facial hair, or wearing accessories can affect recognition. You may want to reset and re-set up Face ID to ensure it recognizes your current appearance.

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