Why is My Face Id Not Working on iPhone or iPad: Causes and Fixes

Face ID is a convenient and secure feature that allows you to unlock your iPhone or iPad simply by looking at it, however, there may be times when Face ID fails to work properly and you may wonder why is my face id not working on iPhone or iPad. Read on to learn how to fix Face ID issues on your iPhone or iPad.

by Rajalaxmi

Updated Mar 09, 2023

Why is My Face Id Not Working on iPhone or iPad: Causes and Fixes

iPhone

The iPhone is a line of smartphones designed and marketed by Apple Inc. First introduced in 2007, the iPhone quickly became one of the most popular smartphones in the world and is widely considered a revolutionary device. Over the years, Apple has continued to innovate and improve upon the iPhone, making it one of the most advanced and well-designed smartphones available today.

The iPhone runs on Apple's proprietary iOS operating system, which is known for its intuitive user interface and sleek design. The latest version of iOS is packed with features that allow users to stay connected and productive on the go, such as iMessage, FaceTime, and the App Store.

The App Store is one of the key features of the iPhone, offering a vast selection of apps for users to download and use on their devices. Whether you're looking for games, productivity tools, or social media apps, the App Store has something for everyone. And with millions of apps available, there is always something new to discover.

One of the standout features of the iPhone is its advanced camera system. From the first iPhone to the latest models, the iPhone's camera has always been a top performer, allowing users to capture stunning photos and videos with ease. With features like Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR, the iPhone's camera continues to set the bar for smartphone photography.

In addition to its hardware and software, the iPhone also boasts a range of accessories and add-ons that allow users to further customize and enhance their devices. From cases and screen protectors to AirPods and Apple Watches, there is no shortage of ways to personalize your iPhone and make it truly your own.

Why is my face id not working on my iphone?

Firstly, ensure that your device has the Face ID feature. Face ID is available on iPhone X or later and iPad Pro models that have Face ID. If you have an older device, then it may not support Face ID and you should consider other authentication options.

One of the most common reasons for Face ID not working is an obstruction in front of the camera. Make sure that the TrueDepth camera on the front of your device is not obstructed by anything, such as a case or a screen protector. If it is, remove the obstruction and try using Face ID again.

Another reason for Face ID not working is a change in your appearance. If you have recently grown a beard, changed your hairstyle or are wearing glasses, this can affect the way your device recognizes your face. In such cases, you can try resetting your Face ID and setting it up again.

Face id is not available to try again later 

Face ID is a facial recognition technology developed by Apple Inc. that allows users to unlock their iPhones or iPads simply by looking at the device. However, there are times when the Face ID feature may not be available and users may receive a message saying "Face ID is not available. Try again later."

There can be several reasons why Face ID is not available. One of the most common reasons is that the TrueDepth camera system, which is responsible for capturing the user's face and creating a depth map, may be obstructed or covered. This can happen if the user is wearing a mask or if there is something covering the front camera. In this case, the device will not be able to recognize the user's face and will display the "Face ID is not available" message.

Another reason why Face ID may not be available is that the device may have been restarted, or the user may have entered the wrong passcode several times in a row. This can cause the device to disable Face ID temporarily as a security measure.

How to fix face id not working on my iPhone or iPad?

1. Check for updates

One of the first things you should do if Face ID is not working on your iPhone or iPad is to check for updates. Make sure that your device is running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Additionally, ensure that your device model supports Face ID. To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, tap Download and Install. Once the update is complete, try using Face ID again.

2. Check your Face ID settings

Another reason why Face ID may not work is that the settings are not configured correctly. To check your Face ID settings, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode. Make sure that Face ID is set up and that the features you're trying to use Face ID with are turned on.

3. Check that nothing is covering the TrueDepth camera

The TrueDepth camera is responsible for Face ID recognition. If anything is covering the TrueDepth camera, Face ID may not work. Remove anything that might be covering the TrueDepth camera like a smudge, case, or screen protector.If you're using your iPad in landscape orientation, make sure that your finger or palm isn't covering the TrueDepth camera. If it is, an alert might appear at the top of the screen that says "Camera covered" with an arrow pointing at the TrueDepth camera.

4. Make sure that your face isn't blocked

Make sure that your eyes, nose, and mouth are fully visible to the TrueDepth camera. By default, Face ID doesn't work if anything is covering your mouth and nose. If you're wearing a face mask and have already set up Face ID with a mask, make sure that your eyes aren't blocked. You might need to hold your iPhone higher if you're wearing a face mask.If you wear a face mask too high or too close to your eyes, your iPhone might not unlock. Face ID works with many sunglasses, though Face ID with a mask isn't designed to work with sunglasses. If you're wearing sunglasses designed to block certain types of light, then your sunglasses might be blocking the infrared light used by the TrueDepth camera. Try using Face ID without your sunglasses.

5. Make sure that you're facing the TrueDepth camera

Face ID works in portrait and landscape orientation on all iPhone 13 and 14 models using iOS 16. For earlier models, Face ID works on iPhone only when it's in portrait orientation and you're facing the TrueDepth camera. On iPad, you can use Face ID when your iPad is in any orientation. The TrueDepth camera has a similar range of view as when you take a selfie or make a FaceTime call. Whether your iPhone or iPad is lying on a surface or you're holding it in a natural position, make sure that your iPhone or iPad is arm's length or closer (10-20 inches) from your face.

6. Restart your device

Restarting your iPhone or iPad is a simple yet effective way to troubleshoot issues with Face ID. Restart your device and enter your passcode. Then try using Face ID again.

7. Add an alternate appearance

For most users, Face ID will continuously learn as they change. However, if you have an appearance that can look vastly different

8. Reset Face ID

If you require further assistance, you can reset your Face ID by accessing Settings, selecting Face ID & Passcode, and then choosing to reset it. Once you have reset it, you can proceed to set it up again by selecting the Set up Face ID option.

9. Get service

If you are unable to register your face, it is advisable to seek assistance from Apple Support. It is important to note that only a trained technician should handle any repairs or modifications to your device, as the use of non-genuine Apple components in the laser systems could result in the safety mechanisms malfunctioning and pose a risk of hazardous exposure and injury to the eyes or skin.

Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

Why is my face id not working on my iPhone or iPad - FAQs

1. How to update the iPhone's operating system?            

To update the operating system on your iPhone, go to "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update". If there is a new update available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.

2. How to back up an iPhone?             

You can back up your iPhone using iTunes or iCloud. To back up using iTunes, connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes. Click on the "Backup Now" button to back up your iPhone to your computer switch.

3. How to restart an iPhone?             

To restart your iPhone, press and hold the side button until the "Slide to Power Off" slider appears. Slide the slider to the right and wait for your iPhone to turn off. Once it's off, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.

4. How to take a screenshot on an iPhone?             

To take a screenshot on an iPhone, press and hold the side button and the volume up button at the same time. The screenshot will be saved to your Photos app.

5. How to transfer files from an old iPhone to a new iPhone?      

You can transfer files from an old iPhone to a new iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. To transfer using iCloud, turn on iCloud on both iPhones and go to "Settings" > "iCloud" > "iCloud Backup" on your old iPhone.