Face ID is a handy feature on iPhones that lets users unlock their devices, sign in to apps, and verify downloads without using passwords. It can be frustrating if you are unable to activate Face ID on your iPhone. But don’t worry! In this article, we’ll explore the causes of this issue and guide you on how to fix it. So, keep reading to learn more!
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How to Fix Unable to Activate Face ID on this iPhone
Apple’s Face ID technology is a valuable feature for iOS users. But being unable to activate it on your iPhone can be inconvenient, as it may require using the passcode, which many people try to avoid, especially in public. If you’re encountering this issue, keep reading to regain the full functionality of Face ID on your iPhone.
Quick Answer
To fix unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone, follow these steps:
1. In the Settings app of your iPhone, tap on Face ID & Passcode.
2. Now, enter your device password.
3. Toggle off the slider for iPhone Unlock and then toggle it on.
What Causes Unable to Activate Face ID on this iPhone
To understand the reasons behind unable to activate Face ID on the iPhone X issue, please read the following points that provide insights into the possible causes:
- A Temporary Glitch
- Incorrect Orientation
- Covered Face
- Damaged TrueDepth Camera
- Outdated Software
Method 1: Basic Troubleshooting Methods
To resolve the issue, begin with basic troubleshooting steps and gradually move on to more advanced solutions. The provided solutions are straightforward to follow, ensuring that you won’t encounter any difficulties while implementing them.
1A. Restart iPhone
Sometimes you may come across unable to activate Face ID on iPhone 11 due to temporary glitches and bugs in your iPhone. To fix it, you can go through our guide on How to Restart iPhone X to start your device again.
1B. Force Restart iPhone
You can also force restart iPhone to fix unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone after dropping. To gain an understanding of how to perform a force restart, abide by the steps given in our guide on How to Force Restart iPhone X. If the problem still exists, then you can try out the other methods discussed by us.
1C. Update iPhone
You can also update your device if you are unable to activate Face ID on iPhone X problem. Outdated software can lead to various issues, so you should update your device to the latest version. The latest software version comes with the latest updates, security updates, and fixes bugs. To update your iPhone, read the steps discussed below:
1. First, navigate to the Settings app and tap on the General option.
2. Now, tap on the Software Update option.
3. Then, tap on the Download and Install option.
Also Read: How to Unlock iPhone Without Passcode or Face ID
Method 2: Keep iPhone in Portrait Orientation
You must hold your device in the portrait orientation while using the Face ID feature. If you hold your iPhone sideways, then this feature might not function properly.
Method 3: Place iPhone at Arm’s Length or Closer
To ensure successful Face ID recognition, make sure to position your iPhone at arm’s length or closer, allowing the TrueDepth camera to capture your facial features accurately. Avoid placing your face too far away from the device. Additionally, ensure that there is sufficient lighting on your face so that your features can be properly recognized.
Method 4: Ensure Nothing is Covering Face
Face ID works by recognizing your facial features, so ensure that your nose, eyes, and mouth are visible on the camera. Besides that, remove any masks and sunglasses you are wearing as this might cover your face.
Method 5: Make Sure Nothing Is Covering TrueDepth Camera
If you are unable to activate Face ID on iPhone X, make sure that the TrueDepth Camera on your device is not obstructed by an iPhone case or a screen protector. In some cases and screen protectors can cover the camera, preventing Face ID from working correctly.
Additionally, keep the camera clean by removing any dirt or debris. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean the camera, as a clear camera enables efficient Face ID operation.
Also Read: How to Fix Face ID Not Working Problem on iPhone
Method 6: Disable and Enable Face ID
Try disabling and then enabling the Face ID feature on your device to fix the unable to activate Face ID on iPhone 11 issue. This method works like wonder. To learn how to do this, abide by the steps mentioned below:
1. Navigate to the Settings app on your device.
2. After that, tap on the Face ID & Passcode option and enter your passcode.
3. Finally, turn off the iPhone Unlock slider, then wait for a few seconds and then toggle on this slider again.
Method 7: Reset Face ID
Another method that you can opt for in the case of being unable to activate your Face ID on iPhone is this one. To make yourself familiar with how you can reset your Face ID, follow the given steps:
1. Launch the Settings app and then tap on Face ID & Passcode.
2. Now, enter your passcode if you are asked.
3. Consequently, tap on the Reset Face ID option.
4. Finally, adhere to the instructions that are displayed on your screen to set up Face ID again.
Also Read: How to Turn Off Find My iPhone Without Password
Method 8: Reset Network Settings
A problem with the network-related settings can also lead to this issue. So, try resetting the network settings on your device. Before following this method, you should know that the information related to the network will be removed from your device like the mobile network preferences, Bluetooth device pairings, Wi-Fi passwords, and names.
To make yourself familiar with how to reset network settings on your device, adhere to the following steps:
1. Tap on the General option in your device Settings.
2. Then, tap on the Transfer or Reset iPhone option.
3. After that, tap on Reset and select the Reset Network Settings option.
Method 9: Reset All Settings
This is another solution to fix unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone 11 issue. To learn how to reset all settings on your Apple phone, read the following steps:
1. Open the General Settings of your iPhone.
2. Next, tap on the Transfer or Reset iPhone option.
3. Then, tap on Reset and select Reset All Settings.
Method 10: Factory Reset iPhone
If the above methods did not work for you then you can factory reset your iPhone to fix unable to activate the Face ID on iPhone issue. This method erases all the data and information from your device, so make sure you back up your data before factory resetting your device. To gain insights on how you can perform this method, you can follow the steps discussed in our article on How to Factory Reset iPhone X.
This wraps our article on how to fix unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone issue. We hope after reading our guide, you were able to resolve the issue. Let us know which method worked for you. You can reach out to us with your suggestions and queries via the comments section below.
