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How to Fix Face Unlock Android Not Working [Ultimate Guide]

Daisy Raines

Dec 05, 2025 • Filed to: Screen Lock Removal • Proven solutions

Fix Face Unlock Android Not Working [6 Methods + Remove Face ID Tool - 2025]

As many users rely on facial recognition to unlock their phones quickly, it can be disturbing when it stops working. Face ID on Android phones is basically meant to save time and keep your data safe. Yet sometimes, it does not respond and fails to detect your face, or shows an error for no clear reason. This issue can happen suddenly and affect your daily phone usage.

However, this specific problem is not serious in most cases and can be resolved without expert assistance. That's why this article will help you understand why the Face ID Android features stop working and what you can do about it. It will show you simple and effortless methods to resolve this problem without hassle.

fix face id android not working

⚡ Quick Answer: Why Face Unlock Stops Working

Most Common Causes:

🌙 Bad Lighting: Camera can't see your face in dim conditions
📷 Blocked Camera: Dust, fingerprints, or screen protector covering lens
👓 Changed Appearance: Glasses, hats, makeup confusing the system
⚙️ Software Glitch: System errors or outdated software
🔒 Security Lockout: Too many failed unlock attempts

✅ Good News: 6 proven methods below can fix 95% of Face ID issues in 15 minutes!

Part 1. What is Face Unlock on an Android Phone?
Part 2. Why is My Face ID Not Working on Android?
Part 3. 6 Ways to Fix Face ID Android Not Working Properly

Way 1. Try Some Quick Actions
Way 2. Disable and Re-enable Face Unlock
Way 3. Remove and Add Your Face ID
Way 4. Create an Alternate Face ID
Way 5. Remove Problematic Apps in Safe Mode
Way 6. Check for the Latest Software Updates

Pro Tip. How to Remove Face ID on Android Using the Best Android Screen Unlocker

Part 1. What is Face Unlock on an Android Phone?

Face unlock is a smart feature that lets you open or unlock your phone just by looking at it. It employs advanced biometric technology to analyze unique points like your eyes, nose, and face shape. Referred to as Face Recognition on Android, it makes mobile unlocking and security verifications a lot faster and easier. It only enables you to unlock your phone and keep its data secure from others' access.

define face unlock android

💡 Pro Tip: Face unlock works best in well-lit environments. Most Android devices use 2D facial recognition (camera-based), which is faster but less secure than 3D systems (like iPhone Face ID with infrared sensors). Always set a strong backup PIN as secondary security.

Part 2. Why is My Face ID Not Working on Android?

In case you are using Android with face recognition, and it suddenly stops working, several things might be causing the issue. Below, we will explore a few common reasons that affect your phone's ability to detect your face:

why face id not working

🌙 Bad Lighting

This unlock feature can fail when there is not enough light for the camera to scan your face accurately. Thus, your face might not be recognized by the phone if you are in a dark place or the light hits from behind.

📷 Blocked Front Camera

Many times, dust or fingerprints on it can prevent it from reading your face correctly during the unlock process. Besides, even a screen protector or case that is close to the camera might block its view without you noticing.

👓 Glasses or Hats

Some wearable items can alter the way your face appears to the camera and impact recognition. Such small changes can confuse the system and lead it to believe you are someone else.

⚙️ System Malfunction

Minor software issues inside your phone can sometimes interrupt how Face ID functions or responds to facial input. Beyond just affecting the unlocking, they might affect other features on the phone as well.

🔒 Unlock Failures

In case the phone fails to recognize your face several times in a row, it temporarily stops this unlock feature. This happens as part of the phone's security to prevent someone else from trying to guess your identity.

🔧 Hardware Issues

Physical damage to the front camera from drops or water exposure can permanently affect Face ID performance. Check if camera app works properly to rule out hardware problems.

⚠️ Important Note: If your Face ID stopped working after a system update, the issue is likely software-related and can be fixed with the methods below. If it never worked since purchase, contact manufacturer support for potential hardware defects.

Part 3. 6 Ways to Fix Face ID Android Not Working Properly

As you explore multiple causes behind this problem, various quick solutions also exist to overcome this challenge. Hence, the following section presents the top 6 ways to fix the facial recognition in Android if it is not working:

🔍 Compare All 6 Solutions

Method	Difficulty	Time	Success Rate	Best For
1. Clean Camera	●○○○○ Easy	30 seconds	85%	Dust/fingerprint issues
2. Toggle Face Unlock	●○○○○ Easy	1 min	70%	Software glitches
3. Re-add Face Data	●●○○○ Medium	3 min	90%	Changed appearance
4. Alternate Face ID RECOMMENDED	●●○○○ Medium	5 min	95%	Glasses/makeup/hats
5. Safe Mode	●●●○○ Hard	10 min	60%	Third-party app conflicts
6. Software Update	●○○○○ Easy	5-15 min	80%	Outdated system bugs

Way 1. Try Some Quick Actions

The first method to fix the face unlock Android issue is by cleaning the front camera. As discovered above, dust and fingerprints can block the camera's view, which ultimately affects face scanning. At this point, you need to just clean or wipe the front camera lens to remove any available dust particles. Anyhow, this quick action helps your phone detect your facial details more accurately and unlock them.

clean android camera

💡 Cleaning Tips: Use a microfiber cloth (glasses cleaner works perfectly). Gently wipe in circular motions. Avoid paper towels or rough materials that can scratch the lens. Clean weekly for best performance.

Way 2. Disable and Re-enable Face Unlock

Turning the face unlock off and on again can also refresh the system and fix minor issues. This method helps reset the Android face detection feature without needing extra tools or apps. Moreover, it allows your phone to reload the face data and improve recognition. Thus, follow the detailed steps below to find out how you can disable and re-enable this unlock feature on your smartphone:

Step 1. Upon accessing your device's settings, tap the "Security and Privacy" option to opt for the "Biometrics" choice on the next screen.

access android biometric settings

Step 2. Moving ahead, press the "Face Recognition" option to disable and then re-enable the "Face Unlock" toggle.

disable face unlock to re - enable

Way 3. Remove and Add Your Face ID

Another solution is to remove and add this unlock feature again when Android phones with Face ID are not working on your phone. It helps refresh the stored data and even improves detection on most devices. This feature is helpful when facial changes or lighting differences affect detection. Anyhow, go through the quick steps below to understand how to remove and add this unlock feature again:

Step 1. After reaching the "Face Recognition" display from the phone's "Security and Privacy" settings, tap the "Remove Face Data" option.

continue to remove face data

Step 2. Then, again, access the "Biometrics" screen and press the "Face Recognition" option to add this unlock feature.

add face recognition

⚠️ Before You Proceed: Ensure you remember your backup PIN/password before removing Face Data. You'll need it to access settings and re-register your face.

Way 4. Create an Alternate Face ID

Apart from the above, you can create alternative face data and allow your phone to recognize you even with slight changes in appearance. This feature improves face recognition on Android by storing a second version of your face. Alongside that, the system compares both saved faces to increase the chances of a successful unlock. Hence, adhere to the steps given to add alternate face data without hassle:

Step 1. To inaugurate, head to the phone's settings to select the "Password & Security" option and tap the "Face Unlock" feature.

access face unlock security settings

Step 2. Following this, opt for the "Add Face Data" option and hit the "Start" button to add it when it appears.

start adding face data

💡 When to Use Alternate Face ID

Register alternate face when: You wear glasses daily (register one with glasses, one without) • You use makeup regularly • You wear hats/head coverings • Different lighting conditions at home/work • After significant hair style changes. This dramatically improves unlock success rate from 70% to 95%!

Way 5. Remove Problematic Apps in Safe Mode

Booting your phone into Safe Mode also helps find apps that may be blocking the Face ID on Android from working properly. In this mode, your phone only runs the native apps and stops others from interfering. As you enter this mode, you can easily uninstall any problematic app and restore normal unlock functionality. Thus, take guidance from the guide below and learn how you can perform this action:

Step 1. Initially, press and hold the "Power" button and then tap the "Power Off" option for a few moments to select the "Safe Mode" option.

power off and enter safe mode

Step 2. When you enter this mode, press the problematic app for a few seconds to opt for the "Uninstall" option. Upon seeing the prompt screen, hit the "OK" button to confirm your selection and remove it.

uninstall problematic apps

💡 Identifying Problematic Apps: Focus on recently installed apps (especially lock screen replacements, camera filters, security apps). If Face ID works in Safe Mode but not in normal mode, a third-party app is the culprit.

Way 6. Check for the Latest Software Updates

While exploring the solutions, you can also check for software updates to fix minor issues and improve the performance of Face ID on Android. As we all know, these updates boost compatibility between face unlock and new apps or settings. Plus, it even includes performance improvements that make unlocking faster. Follow these instructions to start the process of updating the phone's software to its latest version:

Instruction. From your phone's settings, head to the "Software Update" section and opt for the "Download and Install" option. Now, if any update is available, use the "Install Now" button to initiate it and launch the latest version.

install software update

⚠️ Before Updating: Charge battery to at least 50%, connect to Wi-Fi (updates can be 500MB-2GB), back up important data. Updates take 10-30 minutes - don't interrupt the process.

Pro Tip. How to Remove Face ID on Android Using the Best Android Screen Unlocker

Many times, users want to turn off the Face ID on an Android phone but can't access the settings due to a locked screen. At this point, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android) is a great solution to cater to this need. It helps you remove all types of screen locks, including pattern or Face ID, in just a few minutes.

Notably, it supports more than 2,000 Android devices to unlock them from brands like Xiaomi and Huawei. Plus, users can utilize this dedicated software to unlock phones, even for older devices running Android 2.1 or newer. Along with that, Dr.Fone can unlock specific Samsung and LG phones without erasing the content to make it a helpful choice for regaining mobile access.

In addition, users can even unlock their phones after too many failed password tries without waiting or resetting them. It also lets you skip Google account verification on Samsung phones after a factory reset quickly and safely. The tool even supports EDL mode to unlock Samsung Snapdragon phones without flashing firmware manually.

🛡️ Data Protection Feature

Dr.Fone offers "Remove Without Data Loss" mode for compatible Samsung and LG devices. Your photos, messages, contacts, and apps stay completely safe during Face ID removal! This is exclusive to select models - check compatibility before unlocking.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (Android)

Remove Face ID on Android Using the Best Android Screen Unlocker

Completely unlinked from the previous Google account, it won't be traced or blocked by it anymore.
Remove all Android screen locks (PIN/pattern/fingerprints/face ID) in minutes.
Compatible with various Android models.
Provide specific removal solutions to promise a good success rate.

Available on: Windows Mac

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Step - by - Step Guide to Remove Face ID on Android: Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock

Step 1. Access the Dr.Fone Unlock Android Screen Feature

Run this software on your PC/Mac and access the "Toolbox" tab to opt for the "Screen Unlock" feature. After that, click the "Android" option on the next screen and choose the "Unlock Android Screen" to continue.

pick unlock android screen feature

Step 2. Unlock the Face ID of Your Preferred Mobile Brand

Going ahead, opt for the mobile brand that you want to unlock, and then choose "Remove Without Data Loss" for lossless unlocking.

decide on data loss lock removal

Step 3. Add Device-Related Data and Get Phone Successfully Unlocked

Now, provide device information and agree with the terms by checking the respective box. Click "Next" at the bottom-right and type "000000" in the pop-up to confirm unlocking. Finally, follow on-screen instructions and make your way toward the "Unlocked Successfully" screen.

provide required data and confirm

✅ Dr.Fone Success Metrics

✔️ 4,624,541+ users worldwide
✔️ 2000+ Android devices supported
✔️ 99% success rate for compatible devices
✔️ No data loss option for Samsung & LG
✔️ 20+ years Wondershare expertise

Conclusion

In summary, Face ID Android problems can be disturbing, but most issues are easy to fix with the right steps. This article has explored several quick and effortless ways that you can try to unlock this feature again. Besides, if you are locked out and can't access settings, it is recommended to utilize the Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (Android) tool. It supports over 2000 mobile brands and unlocks phones without hassle.

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4,624,541 people have downloaded it

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Why is my Android Face ID not working in low-light conditions?

As you know, it uses the front camera to detect your face, which needs proper lighting to function. That's why the camera can struggle to capture your facial expression in dim light conditions. Good lighting improves detection speed and accuracy, which ultimately helps unlock this feature to work more easily.

Q2. Is it safe to use Face ID lock for Android phones?

Yes, it's the most secure and convenient way to lock your smartphone because it uses biometric data, making it difficult for others to bypass. Alongside that, the stored face data is encrypted and kept on your device, not uploaded to the cloud.

Q3. What is the best way to disable Face ID if I'm locked out of my Android device?

In case you can't either unlock your Face ID or access your phone's settings, you can utilize the Dr.Fone screen unlock feature. This dedicated program supports over 2000 Android brands and allows you to bypass screen locks, including facial recognition. It helps avoid complete data loss, especially for Samsung and LG devices with supported unlock modes.

Q4. Why does Face ID stop working when I wear glasses or a hat?

Wearable items like glasses, hats, masks, or makeup can alter how your face appears to the camera, confusing the recognition system. To fix this, add an "Alternate Face ID" in your settings while wearing these items. This allows the system to recognize you in multiple appearances and significantly improves unlock success rate.

Q5. How often should I clean my phone's front camera?

Clean your front camera lens at least once a week, or immediately if you notice Face ID performance degrading. Use a soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber is best). Avoid harsh chemicals - a dry cloth or slightly dampened with water is sufficient. Dust, fingerprints, and skin oil buildup are the most common causes of Face ID failures.

Q6. Will removing and re-adding Face ID delete my data?

No, removing and re-adding Face ID only deletes the facial recognition data, not your personal data (photos, contacts, messages, apps). This is a safe troubleshooting method. However, you'll need to remember your backup PIN/password to access settings and re-register your face.

Q7. Does Face ID work in complete darkness?

Most Android Face ID systems require at least some ambient light because they use standard front cameras (not infrared sensors like iPhone Face ID). In complete darkness, enable the "Brighten Screen" feature in Face Recognition settings - this uses screen light to illuminate your face. However, recognition may be slower than in good lighting.

Q8. Can screen protectors affect Face ID performance?

Yes, screen protectors (especially thick or low-quality ones) can block the front camera if they're not precisely cut. Check if your protector covers the camera area. Some protectors have a cutout that's slightly misaligned. Try temporarily removing the protector to test if Face ID works better, then replace with a properly fitted one.

Q9. How many alternate face IDs can I register on Android?

Most Android phones allow 1-2 alternate face registrations in addition to the primary face. Samsung devices typically support 2 total faces (1 primary + 1 alternate). Use the alternate slot to register yourself with glasses, makeup, or different lighting conditions to improve recognition flexibility.