First introduced by Apple in November 2017 alongside the iPhone X, Face ID is a biometric authentication method that turns a simple glance into a secure key to unlock your device securely. Powered by the state-of-the-art TrueDepth camera system, this advanced technology not only facilitates device unlocking but also enables secure payments, access to sensitive information, and authorisation of purchases from the App Store,iTunes Store, and other apps.

Since then, Apple has integrated Face ID into all new iPhone models, continuing to offer a seamless user interaction. However, like any other technology, the iPhone Face ID may not work sometimes due to several causes. In this article, we explore the possible reasons and ways to troubleshoot.

1. Dirty TrueDepth Camera or Display

One common culprit behind malfunctioning Face ID is a dirty TrueDepth camera or display. Apple’s TrueDepth camera is a sophisticated camera system primarily used for biometric authentication via Face ID. It operates on the following principles:

• Infrared Dot Projector

TrueDepth projects over 30,000 invisible infrared dots onto your face for depth map generation.

• Reflection Capture

An infrared camera then captures the reflections of these dots to create a detailed depth map of your facial features.

• Software Algorithm Processing and Authentication

Software algorithms analyse both the depth map and a 2D image of your face, comparing them with stored facial data to guarantee accurate recognition. Upon successful verification of facial identity, the system unlocks the device to grant access.

However, over time, smudges, dirt, or debris on the camera lens can obstruct the technology’s ability to capture detailed facial information, leading to potential failures in facial recognition and Face ID authentication.

It is recommended to clean the TrueDepth camera regularly to prevent obstructions that can affect its functionality. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the front-facing camera area, including the TrueDepth camera and its sensor. This simple maintenance routine helps ensure optimal performance of facial recognition on your device.

2. Outdated iOS Version

Software updates play a pivotal role in maintaining device performance and compatibility with advanced features like Face ID. They address issues that affect Face ID’s performance, such as glitches or inconsistencies in facial recognition, to ensure smoother operation. In addition, updates also introduce new features or enhance existing ones, improving overall functionality. For example, they may enhance recognition speed and accuracy in different lighting conditions.  Therefore, if your iPhone X’s face recognition is not working, follow the steps to check for available iOS updates. 

Step 1: Connect your device to a stable Wi-Fi network to download the update securely and quickly. Alternatively, you may use cellular data (subject to additional cellular data charges).

Step 2: Go to “Settings” on your iPhone and tap on “General.”

Step 3: Select “Software Update” to check for available updates.

Step 4: If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and complete the new iOS version.

Step 5: Enter your passcode to proceed with the update.

Step 6: Wait for the update completion and restart if necessary to ensure the update takes effect.

3. Incorrect Face ID Settings

Sometimes, incorrect Face ID settings or a corrupted Face ID profile can lead to recognition failures due to the inability to capture facial features. Perform the following steps to address the issues for a smooth authentication process:

• Check Your Face ID Settings

Go to “Settings” and tap “Face ID & Passcode”. Enter your passcode to identify whether your Face ID is set up properly for the use of various actions, such as iPhone Unlock, Apple Pay, and iTunes.

• Reset Face ID If Necessary

If Face ID recognition still does not work despite the correct settings, you may need to reset it. Tap on “Reset Face ID” and follow the prompts for reconfiguration.

• The Last Resort: Factory Reset

Performed all the steps above but none of them worked? Fret not. Here’s an ultimate solution to the issue: a factory reset. By eliminating any software glitches or corrupt data that may be failing the Face ID recognition, a factory reset restores your iPhone to its original settings, essentially giving your device a fresh start. Be sure to back up your data first as the process will erase all personal data, apps, and settings on your device. 

Step 1: Go to “Settings” and tap “General”.

Step 2: Navigate to “Reset” and select “Erase All Content and Settings”.

Step 3: When prompted, enter your passcode and confirm the reset.

4. Extreme Lighting Conditions

Face ID depends on infrared technology to provide precise facial feature mapping. However, extreme lighting conditions, such as overly bright or poor lighting can disrupt the accuracy. For example, direct sunlight can saturate the infrared sensors with excessive light, making it difficult for the TrueDepth camera system to distinguish the infrared dots projected onto your face. Conversely, low light conditions can alter the appearance of your facial features and result in inaccurate facial authentication. Adjust your iPhone’s display brightness to a comfortable level to ensure reliable Face ID authentication by maintaining optimal visibility of the TrueDepth camera.

Adjust Brightness in the Control Centre

• For iPhone X or Later

Swipe down from the top right-hand corner of your display and drag the brightness bar up or down for the desired brightness level.

• For iPhone 8 or Earlier

Swipe up from the bottom edge of your display and drag the brightness bar up or down for the desired brightness level.

Adjust Brightness and Colour Temperature in Settings

Go to “Settings” and select “Display & Brightness”. Then, move the slider to the left or right for brightness adjustment.

5. App-Specific Face ID Settings

Sometimes your Face ID may not be working with certain apps as it is disabled in the settings. A simple way to troubleshoot this is by checking individual app settings and turning on facial recognition for authentication purposes.

Enabling Face ID for individual apps not only enhances security but also simplifies the login process for certain apps. However, your iPhone Face ID may not be working sometimes because it is disabled in the app’s settings. To ensure that Face ID is enabled for these apps, you need to check and adjust the settings for each one.

Learn more: iPhone Travel Safety Apps for Secure Adventures

• Checking and Enabling Face ID 

Step 1: Open “Settings” on your iPhone and tap on “Face ID & Passcode.”

Step 2: Enter your passcode when prompted to access the Face ID settings.

Step 3: Under the “Use Face ID For” section, ensure the toggle switches for each desired feature are turned on.

• Checking Individual App Settings

Some apps come with respective Face ID settings. Here’s how you can check those:

Step 1: Go to the App’s “Settings”.

Step 2: Look for an option related to Face ID and make sure it is turned on.

While the iPhone Face ID offers exceptional security and convenience, issues may arise occasionally to hinder its functionality. Make sure to follow these tips and you will be able to fully utilise this innovative technology.

For comprehensive iPhone repairs and expert assistance with Face ID issues, LYK Mobile is here to help. 

Contact us now.