Quick answer
If Face ID is not recognizing your face, first check that the camera is clean and that you have removed any mask or glasses. Then go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode, reset Face ID, and set it up again. If the problem persists, check for updates and possible hardware issues.
How to recognize the problem
- iPhone does not unlock with your face and asks for the passcode
- Face ID works intermittently
- Message "Face ID is not available" or "Move iPhone lower"
- Face ID does not recognize your face with glasses or a mask
- The Face ID camera does not react to the presence of a face
Most common causes
Dirt or a cover on the camera
Grease, dust, or a screen protector over the sensor can interfere with facial recognition. Clean the camera regularly and check that no cover is blocking the sensor.
Changes to your face
A beard, glasses, a hat, or a mask can confuse Face ID. The system learns gradually, but major changes can temporarily make recognition harder.
Software problem
A bug in iOS or a failed update can disrupt Face ID. Sometimes restarting the device or installing the latest iOS version is enough.
Hardware damage
A drop or impact can damage the TrueDepth camera or sensors. In that case, Face ID will not work without service.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Clean the camera and check the conditions
Wipe the top of the screen with a soft, lint-free cloth. Make sure there is no screen protector or case covering the sensor. Face ID works in the dark, so additional lighting is not needed.
- 2
Restart your iPhone or iPad
On iPhone, press and hold the side button and one of the volume buttons until the power off slider appears. On iPad with Face ID, press and hold the top button and one of the volume buttons. Drag the slider and wait for the device to turn off, then turn it back on. Check if Face ID works now.
- 3
Check if Face ID is set up at all
Open
Settings > Face ID & Passcode. If the "Set Up Face ID" option is available, it means Face ID is not set up or has been reset. In that case, set it up right away. - 4
Reset Face ID
In
Settings > Face ID & Passcode, tap "Reset Face ID". Confirm by entering your passcode. This only deletes facial data, not the data on your device. Then select "Set Up Face ID" again and follow the on-screen instructions. Set up your face under different lighting conditions. - 5
Set up an alternative appearance
If you wear glasses or have significant changes in appearance, use the "Set Up an Alternative Appearance" option in the same menu. This allows Face ID to recognize your face with and without glasses. Setting up one alternative appearance is enough.
- 6
Update iOS or iPadOS
Go to
Settings > General > Software Update. If a new version is available, install it. Updates often include fixes for Face ID and other sensors. - 7
Check if Face ID is disabled
If a message appears that Face ID is disabled, unlock the device by entering your passcode. Then in
Settings > Face ID & Passcode, check that "iPhone Unlock" (on iPad "iPad Unlock") is turned on. Sometimes simply unlocking the device with the passcode is enough. - 8
Reset all settings
If nothing else helps, on iPhone go to
Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings(on iPad the path is the same, with the iPad name). This does not delete data but returns network and other settings to factory defaults. Before resetting, make a backup in iCloud or on a computer. After that, set up Face ID again.
If nothing helps
If you have tried all the steps and Face ID still does not work, the TrueDepth camera may be damaged. In that case, contact an authorized service center. Do not try to disassemble the device yourself as this may void the warranty and cause further damage. Also, check if the device is under warranty or if you have AppleCare+. The service center can diagnose the fault and, if necessary, replace the required parts.
How to prevent it
- Clean the camera and sensors regularly with a soft cloth.
- Avoid protective cases that cover the TrueDepth camera.
- Update iOS or iPadOS as soon as a new version is available.
- Set up an alternative appearance if you wear glasses or have a beard.
When to call a professional
If you suspect a hardware fault or have tried all software steps without success, contact IT support or an authorized service center. They can determine if the camera or another part needs replacement.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Why doesn't Face ID work when I wear glasses?
Face ID may have difficulty with glasses if an alternative appearance is not set up. Set up one alternative appearance in Settings > Face ID & Passcode so the system can recognize your face with glasses as well.
Does resetting Face ID delete data?
No, resetting Face ID only deletes facial data and does not affect your data, apps, or settings. After resetting, you need to set up Face ID again.
How many failed Face ID attempts before it gets disabled?
After five failed attempts, Face ID is temporarily disabled and you need to enter your passcode. This is a security measure that protects your data.