Using Face ID to unlock a phone is a simple and secure method, but only when it works. There are ways to fix the issue when your Face ID is not working. To do so, go to settings > Face ID and passcode and check the various settings. Make sure to enable Face ID for your Apple and third-party apps. You can include an alternative appearance, train Face ID to work with glasses and masks, or completely reset Face ID and go through setup again.
Also, you would need to update the device’s software, so sometimes, a simple restart may help with Face ID in case it’s not working correctly and you suspect a software problem. If Face ID fails for a hardware reason, you can do nothing but send the device to an iPhone repair service provider.
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Ways To Fix Face ID Not Working
There are various reasons why your face ID is not working: something is covering the camera, your face is not properly visible, or the settings are off. Here are some ways that can help you fix this problem:
1. The Face Isn’t Covered
Ensure your eyes, nose, and mouth are accessible to the TrueDepth camera. By default, Face ID won’t work if something is over your mouth and nose. So, if you’re going to use a face mask and you’ve already set up your Face ID using a mask, ensure your eyes are visible. When you wear a face mask, you should position your iPhone slightly to allow Face ID to recognize it. If you position a face mask too high or too close to your eyes, the iPhone cannot unlock.
Face ID is more effective with many sunglasses, though Face ID with a mask does not work with sunglasses. If you wear sunglasses that block certain kinds of light, then perhaps your sunglasses are blocking the infrared light used by the TrueDepth camera, so try using Face ID without your sunglasses.
2. Updates
If you can not face unlock your device, ensure you’ve checked for updates to run the latest version of iOS.
- Connect your device to Wi-Fi and charger.
- Now, in Settings > General > Software Update.
- If an update is available, your phone will ask you to Install it.
- If you wish to download the operating system overnight, tap Install Tonight.
Ensure your device is on and linked to Wi-Fi.
3. Check the Settings
If Face ID does not work even after updating, check some settings:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap Face ID & Passcode. You should need to enter your passcode for security.
- Turn on the Face ID and set it up.
Now, you can unlock your iPhone using face ID.
4. Look At The TrueDepth Camera
Face ID will work in portrait and landscape on iPhone 13 models and later. On earlier models, use Face ID on the iPhone when it is in portrait view and the user is facing the TrueDepth camera. The TrueDepth camera has a field view about the same as you get when taking a selfie or making a FaceTime call. Whether your iPhone is lying flat on a surface or holding it, make sure it is at arm’s length or closer: 10 to 20 inches from your face.
Why Won’t Apple Face ID Work For Me?
Unless your iPhone has experienced physical damage like an accidental bump or dropping, the cause of Apple Face ID not working is very likely to be from a software cause. If it has some physical damage, your only choice will be to send it in for repair. When Face ID is not working, you may get error messages like “Face ID not available” or “Face ID has been disabled.” Other symptoms include frequent retries to unlock your device and several passcode requests.
The device automatically disables Face ID at certain points. The feature will not be accessible after five consecutive scan failures. You are most likely to be asked to enter your passcode if you have recently turned on or restarted the device or if it has been locked for more than 48 hours. Also, Face ID will not function if you are on the Emergency SOS screen or using the Find My app to put the device into Lost mode.
Conclusion
Face ID also may not work if there is an issue in the settings, something is blocking the TrueDepth camera, you are wearing a mask, the software is not updated, or there are general software bugs and glitches. Try some quick troubleshooting steps that would likely fix the problem if it is a software issue. Check supported devices, do not cover the TrueDepth camera, reset Face ID, reset all settings on the iPhone, restart the iPhone, and update to the latest iOS.
