Face ID Not Working on iPhone? Simple and Complete Fix Guide

Face ID is one of the most useful features on an iPhone. It helps you unlock your phone, sign into apps, and make payments quickly and securely. When it suddenly stops working, even small tasks can feel annoying and slow.

The good news is that most Face ID problems are easy to fix. In many cases, the issue is minor and does not require any repair. This guide explains every possible solution in clear and simple language. Follow the steps one by one to get Face ID working again.

Also read: How to Check Parts and Service History on an iPhone (2025 Guide)

Why Face ID Stops Working on iPhone

Face ID uses advanced sensors and a front camera system to recognize your face. It scans facial features using infrared light and builds a secure facial map. If anything interrupts this process, Face ID may fail.

Here are the most common reasons:

Camera or Sensor Blockage

Dust, fingerprints, or grease on the front camera can block Face ID. Thick screen protectors or phone cases may also cover the sensors without you noticing.

Lighting and Environment Issues

Very bright sunlight or extremely dark areas can affect Face ID accuracy. Poor lighting makes it harder for the sensors to read your face properly.

Changes in Appearance

Face ID may struggle if your appearance changes suddenly. Growing or shaving a beard can confuse it for a short time. Normal glasses usually work fine, but some sunglasses block infrared light and stop Face ID from scanning.

Face Masks and Accessories

Face masks hide important facial features. Hats, scarves, or large accessories can also block the camera.

Security Restrictions

Face ID temporarily disables itself after multiple failed attempts. It can also stop working if your phone hasn’t been unlocked for a long time, if Emergency SOS is activated, or if the device is locked remotely.

Software Problems

Bugs after an iOS update or outdated software can cause Face ID issues. Incorrect settings can also prevent it from working properly.

Physical Damage

Drops, water exposure, or non-authorized repairs can damage the Face ID hardware. In such cases, software fixes may not work.

Easy Software Fixes to Try First

Start with these simple steps. Most Face ID problems are solved here.

Restart Your iPhone

Restarting clears temporary glitches and refreshes system processes.
Turn off your iPhone completely, wait about 15 seconds, then turn it back on. Enter your passcode and test Face ID again.

Check Face ID Settings

Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and enter your passcode.
Make sure Face ID is turned on for iPhone unlock, apps, and payments. Enable all options you want to use.

Turn Face ID Off and On

Disable Face ID from settings, restart your phone, then turn Face ID back on. This refreshes the Face ID system.

Update iOS

Software updates often fix hidden bugs.
Connect to Wi-Fi, open Settings > General > Software Update, and install any available update. Restart your phone after the update.

Reset All Settings

This fixes hidden configuration problems without deleting your data.
Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings.
Your phone will restart, and you can test Face ID again.

Physical and Usage Tips That Often Fix Face ID

Clean the Front Camera

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean the front camera area. Make sure there is no dust or smudge blocking it.

Make Sure Your Face Is Fully Visible

Face ID needs to see your eyes, nose, and mouth. Remove masks, adjust coverings, and keep accessories away from your face.

Remove Sunglasses and Accessories

Some sunglasses block infrared light. Remove them before unlocking. Also, try removing thick cases or screen protectors temporarily.

Hold Your iPhone Correctly

Hold your phone upright and directly in front of your face. Keep it at a natural distance and avoid tilting it too much.

Add an Alternate Appearance

If your look has changed, adding an alternate appearance helps Face ID adapt.
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Set Up an Alternate Appearance and follow the on-screen instructions.

Reset Face ID Completely

If nothing works, reset Face ID and set it up again from scratch.
Remove existing Face ID data, then scan your face again carefully.

When Face ID Problems Are Hardware-Related

If your iPhone was dropped, exposed to liquid, or repaired using non-genuine parts, Face ID may stop working permanently. Face ID hardware is tightly linked to the device and cannot be replaced casually.

If you see error messages related to the TrueDepth camera, professional help is required. Visit an authorized service center or contact official support for proper diagnosis.

Factory Reset (Last Option)

Before doing this, back up your data.
A factory reset erases everything and should only be done if all other steps fail. After resetting, set up your iPhone as new and try Face ID again.

Also read: How to Safely Delete Call History on Android and iPhone

Final Thoughts

Face ID issues can feel stressful, but most of them are easy to fix. Simple actions like cleaning the camera, restarting your phone, updating software, or adjusting settings solve the problem in many cases.

If the issue is hardware-related, professional repair is the safest option. Always use genuine parts and authorized service centers.

Follow the steps calmly and in order. In most cases, Face ID starts working again quickly, bringing back smooth, fast, and secure access to your iPhone.