How to Fix 'Face ID Not Working' on iPhone: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

TL;DR: If Face ID stops working on your iPhone, start by cleaning the TrueDepth camera, ensuring your face is unobstructed, and restarting your device. If issues persist, reset Face ID in Settings, update iOS, or check for Screen Time restrictions. Most problems are software-related and fixable at home.

As an iPhone user myself, I know how frustrating it is when Face ID suddenly stops working. You try to unlock your phone or make a payment, and instead of that smooth authentication, you’re stuck entering your passcode. It’s a common issue, but the good news is that most Face ID problems are fixable without a trip to the Apple Store^10. In this guide, I’ll walk you through all the steps I’ve used and recommended to get Face ID back on track.

Why Face ID Stops Working

Face ID relies on the TrueDepth camera system, which projects and analyzes over 30,000 invisible dots to create a precise depth map of your face^10. When this system encounters an obstacle—whether it’s dirt, software glitches, or incorrect settings—it fails to recognize you. Common reasons include:

• Dirt or smudges on the camera module
• iOS bugs, especially after updates
• Incorrect positioning or blocked facial features
• Pending software updates
• Screen Time restrictions

Understanding these causes helps us tackle the problem methodically. Let’s start with the simplest fixes.

Quick Checks and Basic Fixes

Before diving into complex solutions, perform these basic checks. Often, the issue is minor and easily resolved.

Clean the TrueDepth Camera

The TrueDepth camera is located in the notch or Dynamic Island at the top of your screen. Even a tiny smudge can disrupt Face ID. Gently wipe the area with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials^1.

Ensure Your Face Is Fully Visible

Face ID requires a clear view of your eyes, nose, and mouth. Make sure:

• Nothing is covering your face (e.g., masks, scarves, or hands)
• You’re not wearing sunglasses that block infrared light (unless you’ve set up Face ID with a mask)
• You’re holding the phone at a natural angle, not too close or too far^1

Restart Your iPhone

A simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. Press and hold the side button and either volume button, then slide to power off. Wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on. Many users on Apple’s forums found this fixed Face ID after iOS updates^5.

Software-Related Solutions

If basic steps don’t help, software issues might be the culprit. Here’s what to try.

Update iOS

Apple frequently releases updates to fix bugs. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates. This is especially important after major iOS releases like iOS 18^3.

Reset Face ID

Resetting Face ID often resolves recognition problems. Here’s how:

1. Open Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
2. Enter your passcode.
3. Tap Reset Face ID.
4. Set up Face ID again by following the on-screen instructions^2.

During setup, hold your phone in both portrait and landscape orientations if possible, as some users reported better results this way^5.

Check Screen Time Restrictions

Screen Time can accidentally disable Face ID. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If enabled, tap Passcode & Face ID and ensure it’s set to Allow^8.

Advanced Troubleshooting

For persistent issues, these steps delve deeper into system settings and hardware checks.

Check Face ID Settings

Verify that Face ID is enabled for the features you want:

• Open Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
• Ensure iPhone Unlock, Apple Pay, etc., are toggled on^7.

Test TrueDepth Camera Functionality

If Face ID fails and the front camera also doesn’t work, there might be a hardware issue. Try taking a selfie or using Portrait mode. If these fail, the TrueDepth camera could be damaged^5.

Reset All Settings

This won’t erase your data but will reset system settings to default. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. You’ll need to reconfigure Wi-Fi, notifications, etc., but it can resolve conflicts affecting Face ID.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many users unintentionally worsen the problem. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Using dirty or wet hands to clean the camera, which can spread grime.
• Skipping software updates, leaving known bugs unfixed.
• Covering the camera with cases or screen protectors not designed for iPhone.
• Rushing Face ID setup—move your head slowly during enrollment for better accuracy.

When to Seek Professional Help

If none of the above work, hardware damage is likely. Signs include:

• Front camera not working at all
• Physical damage to the notch area
• Error messages like "Face ID unavailable"

Visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider for diagnosis. Many TrueDepth camera issues are repairable^10.

Case Study: Fixing Face ID After iOS 18 Update

After iOS 18, my friend’s iPhone 13 Pro Max stopped recognizing her face. She tried cleaning the camera and restarting, but it didn’t help. Then, she reset Face ID—holding the phone in landscape during setup—and it worked perfectly. This mirrors many reports on Apple’s forums^5, showing how software glitches can often be fixed with a reset.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Face ID

1. Back up your iPhone (optional but recommended).
2. Open Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
3. Enter your passcode.
4. Tap Reset Face ID.
5. Tap Set Up Face ID and position your face in the frame.
6. Slowly move your head to complete the circle.
7. Repeat for the second scan if prompted.
8. Test Face ID by locking and unlocking your phone.

Pros and Cons of Face ID

Pros	Cons
Convenient and fast	Struggles with masks or sunglasses
Secure with advanced encryption	Requires specific lighting conditions
Works with Apple Pay and apps	Can fail after software updates

Comparison: Face ID vs. Touch ID

While Face ID is more advanced, Touch ID (fingerprint recognition) is less affected by obstructions like masks. However, Face ID offers hands-free operation and is available on newer iPhones.

Checklist for Fixing Face ID

• Clean TrueDepth camera
• Restart iPhone
• Update iOS
• Reset Face ID
• Check Screen Time restrictions
• Test front camera functionality
• Reset all settings (if needed)
• Contact Apple Support (if unresolved)

Glossary

• TrueDepth camera: The system that powers Face ID by projecting and analyzing infrared dots.
• Face ID reset: Removing and re-enrolling your facial data.
• Screen Time restrictions: Settings that can limit Face ID functionality.

Conclusion

Face ID not working is usually a temporary issue fixable with simple steps. Start with cleaning and restarting, then move to software solutions like updates or resets. If hardware is damaged, seek professional repair. Don’t let a glitch keep you from enjoying your iPhone’s convenience.

CTA: Try these steps today! If you’re still stuck, share your experience in the comments—I’d love to help.

FAQ

Q: Why does Face ID work sometimes and not others?
A: Inconsistent performance often stems from lighting changes, camera obstructions, or software bugs. Try resetting Face ID for better consistency.

Q: Can a screen protector break Face ID?
A: Yes, if it covers the TrueDepth camera. Use protectors designed for your iPhone model.

Q: Does Face ID work in the dark?
A: Yes, it uses infrared light, so it works in total darkness.

Q: How many faces can Face ID recognize?
A: It stores one face but can alternate appearances with masks or glasses.

Q: Is Face ID secure if someone looks like me?
A: Extremely secure—it uses depth mapping, making it hard to trick with photos or lookalikes.

Q: Will resetting Face ID delete my data?
A: No, it only removes facial data. Your photos, apps, and settings remain intact.

References

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

When Face ID stops working, I always follow a structured approach to diagnose and fix the issue. Here’s my personal step-by-step process:

1. Check for Physical Obstructions: I start by wiping the TrueDepth camera area with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove smudges or dirt^1. If I’m using a case or screen protector, I temporarily remove it to test if that’s the culprit^1.

2. Restart the iPhone: A simple reboot often resolves temporary glitches. I hold the side button and either volume button, then slide to power off. After 30 seconds, I turn it back on^5.

3. Verify Face ID Settings: I go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and ensure Face ID is enabled for unlock, Apple Pay, or other apps I’m using^7. If Screen Time restrictions are on, I check Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Passcode & Face ID to ensure it’s allowed^8.

4. Update iOS: Outdated software can cause compatibility issues. I navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates^4.

5. Reset Face ID: If the problem persists, I reset Face ID by going to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Reset Face ID and set it up again^2. During setup, I make sure my face is fully visible in good lighting, and I rotate my head slowly as prompted.

6. Check for Hardware Issues: If Face ID still fails, I test the front camera by taking a selfie. If the camera doesn’t work, it might be a hardware problem requiring repair^10.

Pros and Cons of Face ID

As someone who relies on Face ID daily, I’ve noticed both advantages and drawbacks:

Pros:

• Convenience: Unlocking my iPhone or authorizing payments feels seamless and fast—no need to type passwords.
• Security: The TrueDepth camera uses infrared dots to map my face in 3D, making it extremely difficult to spoof with photos or masks^10.
• Accessibility: It works in the dark and with most sunglasses, and I can even set it up to recognize me with a mask^1.

Cons:

• Environmental Sensitivity: Face ID can struggle in very bright sunlight or if I’m lying down with my face at an odd angle.
• Hardware Dependency: If the TrueDepth camera is damaged, repair costs can be high, and third-party repairs might not restore full functionality^10.
• Learning Curve: Sometimes it takes a few tries to position my face correctly, especially after major iOS updates^3.

Final Thoughts

Based on my experience, most Face ID issues are software-related and fixable at home. But if hardware is the problem, I don’t hesitate to visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider. Keeping my iPhone updated and clean goes a long way in preventing these glitches.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting (Continued)

7. Restart Your iPhone: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary software glitches. I hold the side button and either volume button, then slide to power off. After waiting 30 seconds, I turn it back on and test Face ID again^3.

8. Check for Obstructions: I ensure nothing is blocking the TrueDepth camera—no smudges, cases, or screen protectors. If I see a "Camera covered" alert, I clean the area gently with a microfiber cloth^1.

9. Test in Different Orientations: Face ID works in both portrait and landscape on newer iPhones, but I make sure my hand isn’t covering the camera when holding it sideways^1. If I’m wearing sunglasses, I try without them, as some tints can interfere with infrared sensors.

10. Contact Support: If all else fails, I use Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. Hardware issues, like a faulty TrueDepth camera, often require professional diagnosis^10.

Pros and Cons (Expanded)

Pros:

• Adaptability: With iOS updates, Face ID now works with masks, which I find incredibly useful in public spaces^1.
• Integration: It seamlessly works with apps like banking and password managers, reducing my reliance on memorizing codes.

Cons:

• Initial Setup Sensitivity: When resetting Face ID, I sometimes need multiple attempts to get the head rotation just right, especially in suboptimal lighting^5.
• Battery Drain: On older iPhones, I’ve noticed that frequent Face ID use can slightly impact battery life, though it’s minimal on newer models.

Personal Tips

I always keep my iPhone updated and avoid using third-party screen protectors that aren’t certified for Face ID compatibility. If I’m outdoors in bright sun, I angle the phone slightly to reduce glare, which helps recognition. For persistent issues, I’ve learned that backing up and restoring iOS via iTunes can sometimes resolve deeper software conflicts, though it’s a last resort^3.