Face ID Not Working After iOS Update? How to Reset and Fix

Published: September 29, 2026

After updating iOS, Face ID has stopped working on your iPhone. When you try to unlock your iPhone, Face ID does not unlock the phone and the passcode screen appears instead. This can happen because the TrueDepth camera is blocked, a setting is preventing Face ID from working, a temporary software issue occurred during the update, or Face ID needs to be set up again.

Table of Contents

Quick Fix

Clean the TrueDepth camera.
Restart your iPhone.
Reset Face ID and set it up again.

These steps often fix Face ID problems. If you don’t know how to do any of these, the sections below explain each step in simple terms.

How to Clean the TrueDepth Camera

The TrueDepth camera is at the top of the screen. If there is dust or fingerprints on it, gently clean the area with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaner around the camera or other openings.

How to Restart iPhone

Go to Settings > General > Shut Down and slide to turn off your iPhone. Wait a few seconds, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.

If your iPhone is frozen and you cannot use the screen, press and release Volume Up, press and release Volume Down, then hold the side button to force restart the iPhone.

Check for iOS Updates

Go to Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, install it.

Check Face ID Settings and Restrictions

Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and make sure iPhone Unlock is turned on.
If you cannot change your Face ID settings, check Screen Time restrictions. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allow Changes > Passcode & Face ID and make sure it is set to Allow.

If Face ID does not unlock when you are looking away from the screen, go to Settings > Accessibility > Face ID & Attention and check Require Attention for Face ID. When this option is on, you need to look at the screen for Face ID to unlock your iPhone.

If your iPhone is managed by your work or school, check Settings > General > VPN & Device Management for any restrictions.

Reset Face ID and Set It Up Again

Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode, enter your passcode, and tap Reset Face ID. Then tap Set Up Face ID and follow the instructions on the screen.

A box will appear on the screen for the face scan. Keep your face inside the box and slowly move your head as shown on the screen. Follow the circle until the scan is complete. You will need to scan your face twice.

Set up Face ID in a well-lit place so the camera can clearly scan your face. Remove anything that covers your face while setting it up. If you cannot move your head fully, tap Accessibility Options and follow the instructions on the screen.

Apple’s Face ID guide also explains the setup process.

Reset All Settings

Reset All Settings returns your iPhone’s settings to their defaults. It can help if a setting is causing the Face ID problem. Your photos, apps, messages, and other personal data will not be deleted.

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings and enter your passcode. Make sure you select Reset All Settings, not Erase All Content and Settings. The second option deletes your data.

After the reset, you will need to reconnect to Wi-Fi, pair Bluetooth devices again, and set up Face ID.

If Face ID still does not work after these steps, or you cannot complete Face ID setup, your iPhone may need service. Apple recommends getting the device checked by a trained technician.

FAQ

Why does my iPhone ask for the passcode even though Face ID is set up?

Your iPhone may ask for the passcode even when Face ID is working normally. This can happen if the iPhone has not been unlocked for more than 48 hours or after five unsuccessful Face ID attempts. You also need to enter the passcode after restarting the iPhone.

Does Face ID work if I wear glasses?

Yes. Face ID works with many types of glasses. However, some sunglasses can block the infrared light used by the TrueDepth camera, which may prevent Face ID from recognizing you.

Author
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Rehman Gul

At FixerLab, I focus on making technology easier to understand. Through well-researched, easy-to-follow guides, I explain smartphone issues, app errors, software problems, and everyday digital challenges in a simple way, helping readers find clear and practical solutions with confidence.