How to Fix Face ID Not Working?

Common Causes

The TrueDepth camera is blocked (case, dirt, screen protector, water droplets).
Your face appearance changed or the phone is at an unusual angle.
iOS glitches after an update or prolonged uptime.
Face ID is disabled for certain features (unlock, App Store, etc.).

Fix Checklist (Try in Order)

Clean the top of the iPhone (notch/Dynamic Island area) with a soft, dry cloth.
Make sure nothing covers the camera (case edge, privacy screen, cracked glass).
Restart your iPhone.
Update iOS: Settings > General > Software Update.
Check toggles: Settings > Face ID & Passcode > make sure iPhone Unlock and other options are enabled.
Reset Face ID: Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Reset Face ID, then set it up again.
If the front camera also fails in apps, test in Camera (front selfie). If it’s hardware-related, contact Apple Support.

Symptom-to-Fix Table

What you see	Likely reason	What to do
“Face ID is not available”	System or sensor issue	Restart, update iOS, try Reset Face ID; seek service if persists
Works sometimes	Angle/lighting/partial block	Hold phone higher, improve lighting, remove obstructions
Fails after mask change	Appearance mismatch	Add Alternate Appearance or remove mask requirement

🤔 Protip:

Face ID requires your attention by default. If you want it to work without eye contact, toggle Attention-Aware Features (Settings > Face ID & Passcode). Note: this can reduce security.

Optional: Dr.Fone Recommendation

If Face ID broke after an iOS update and resets don’t help, Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS) can address software-layer problems. Back up your data first.