Face ID Not Working on iPhone? Here’s How to Diagnose and Fix It

in #iphone5 days ago

Is your iPhone’s Face ID suddenly refusing to recognize your face or showing “Face ID is unavailable” errors? Whether it’s happening after an update or out of the blue, there are a number of possible causes—from simple obstructions to deeper system or hardware faults.

This guide walks you through step-by-step diagnostics and solutions, starting with basic checks and moving toward advanced repairs.

1. Eliminate Physical Obstructions First

Before diving into settings or software, make sure nothing is physically blocking your Face ID system.

Check the Following:

  • Clean the TrueDepth camera: Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe the notch area at the top front of the iPhone.
  • Remove phone cases or screen protectors: Some bulky accessories may interfere with the camera’s scanning angles.
  • Ensure proper lighting and visibility: Your eyes, nose, and mouth should be clearly visible and well-lit. Avoid using Face ID in poor lighting or while wearing masks that cover the lower face.

2. Review Face ID Settings in iOS

If Face ID still won’t scan or unlock, verify your iPhone’s settings:

  1. Open Settings > Face ID & Passcode.

  2. Confirm that Face ID is enabled for:

    • iPhone Unlock
    • iTunes & App Store
    • Password Autofill
    • Other supported apps
  3. If you wear glasses, turn off “Require Attention for Face ID.” This setting can affect scans if your eyes aren’t fully visible.

If everything looks correct but Face ID still fails, tap “Reset Face ID” and re-enroll your face. Hold your iPhone at eye level and follow the onscreen prompts to scan your face completely.


3. If the Problem Started After an iOS Update

Many users have reported Face ID issues after updating to iOS versions 17.2 through 18.1. If that sounds familiar, try these steps:

Force Restart Your iPhone

For iPhone X, 14, 15, or 16 series:

  • Press and release Volume Up.
  • Press and release Volume Down.
  • Then hold the Side Button until the Apple logo appears.

This refreshes system memory and clears any temporary glitches affecting Face ID.

Update to the Latest iOS Version

  • Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Install any available patches. Updates like iOS 18.2 often include bug fixes for Face ID and TrueDepth camera performance.

Reset System Settings Without Data Loss

  • Navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.
  • This will reset display, network, and permission settings without erasing personal data.

4. Use Advanced iOS Repair Tools for Persistent Face ID Failures

If Face ID setup keeps freezing (e.g., stuck on “Fit face in frame”) or the issue returns even after resets and updates, the underlying problem may be system-level damage in iOS.

Use MagFone iOS System Recovery:

  1. Download and install MagFone iOS System Recovery on your computer.
  2. Connect your iPhone and select “Standard Repair Mode.”
  3. Follow the prompts to download firmware and start the repair process.

MagFone fixes iOS-level errors—including Face ID failures—without erasing your data or requiring a factory reset.


5. Test the TrueDepth Hardware (Check for Physical Damage)

Sometimes, Face ID issues are rooted in hardware failures—especially if your device has been dropped or exposed to moisture.

How to Check Hardware Functionality:

  • Open the Measure app. If the app fails to detect movement or depth, your TrueDepth camera system (including the dot projector) may be damaged.
  • Water damage or faulty sensors are common causes and typically require hardware repair at Apple Support or an authorized service center.

6. Need to Remove Face ID or Passcode Completely?

If Face ID is permanently non-functional and you want to bypass authentication altogether (e.g., on a locked secondhand iPhone), you can remove Face ID and passcodes using MagFone iPhone Unlocker.

Steps:

  1. Launch MagFone and select “Unlock iOS Screen.”
  2. Connect your iPhone and follow the on-screen steps to erase Face ID and passcodes.

This method allows you to regain access to your device without requiring biometrics or old passcodes.


Final Thoughts

Face ID is one of the most advanced and secure biometric systems in smartphones—but like all tech, it can fail due to settings, software, or hardware. The good news is, most Face ID issues can be solved without a trip to the repair shop.

Start by cleaning the TrueDepth camera and reviewing your settings. If that doesn’t work, a force restart or system update often does the trick. For more stubborn problems, MagFone iOS System Recovery is your best bet for fixing system corruption without data loss. And if all else fails, hardware testing or unlocking tools like MagFone iPhone Unlocker can help you regain full control.