Face ID Not Working? Settings And Camera-Area Checks To Try First

Guide 7a · Face ID & Camera

Face ID suddenly asking for your passcode? Often something is blocking the camera at the top, or a setting changed. Try these in order.

Works on: iPhone X and newer, except iPhone SE models, which use Touch ID.

Step 1: Clean The Top Of The Screen

Wipe the area at the top of the screen with a soft, dry cloth. Smudges can block the camera.

Step 2: Remove The Case And Protector

Some cases and privacy screen protectors cover the camera. Remove them and try again.

Step 3: Check Your Face And Position

• Hold the phone 10 to 20 inches from your face.
• Make sure your eyes, nose and mouth are visible, unless you set up Face ID with a mask.
• Some sunglasses block it. Try without them.
• On iPhone 12 and older, hold the phone upright, not sideways.

Step 4: Check Face ID Settings

1. Open Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
2. Enter your passcode.
3. Make sure the features you want, like iPhone Unlock, are turned on.

Step 5: Update And Restart

Install any update in Settings > General > Software Update. Then restart the phone and enter your passcode once.

Step 6: Reset Face ID

This only deletes your saved face scan, not your data.

1. Open Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
2. Tap Reset Face ID.
3. Tap Set Up Face ID and follow the prompts.

Setup keeps asking you to move your face into the frame, or says Face ID is not available? Settings can't fix that. It usually points to a hardware problem. Call or text me and tell me what you see.

Source: If Face ID isn't working on your iPhone or iPad Pro, Use Face ID on your iPhone (Apple Support, checked Oct 18, 2026).

Franchitti's Fix LLC is an independent repair shop, not affiliated with Apple.