To use Face ID instead of passcode, first set up Face ID in your device's Settings app. Once enrolled, your face replaces your passcode for unlocking your iPhone or iPad, authorizing purchases, and signing into apps, all with a simple glance.
Setting up Face ID for the first time
Face ID relies on the TrueDepth camera system to map your facial features securely. Before you can set it up, you must have a passcode configured on your device, as this serves as an alternate verification method. To begin, open Settings, tap Face ID & Passcode, and enter your existing passcode. Hold your device in portrait orientation, position your face within the on-screen frame at a distance of about 10-20 inches (25-50 cm), and gently move your head to complete two scans. Once you are comfortable with how Face ID unlocks your phone, you can also put a face id on Snapchat to lock the app itself. The process captures your face from multiple angles, creating a mathematical representation that is encrypted and stored only in your device's Secure Enclave.
Enabling Face ID to unlock your device
After setup, toggle on "Unlock with Face ID" in the same Face ID & Passcode settings. This allows your device to unlock automatically when it recognizes your face. However, your passcode remains mandatory in specific scenarios: after turning on or restarting your device, after a software update, if your device has not been unlocked for more than 48 hours, or after five unsuccessful Face ID attempts. Face ID works best in portrait orientation on most iPhones; iPhone 13 models and later with iOS 16 and later also support landscape orientation.
Using Face ID for apps and purchases
To use Face ID for app sign-ins and purchases, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and enter your passcode. Toggle the switch next to each app to enable or disable it. When you launch a supported app, simply look at your device to authenticate. For purchases, Face ID authorizes Apple Pay transactions with a glance, whether in stores, within apps, or on websites. If you ever need to complete a transaction while wearing a mask or sunglasses, you can use Apple pay without face id by switching to your passcode. This eliminates the need to enter your passcode or credit card details for each transaction.
Improving recognition with an alternate appearance
If your appearance changes significantly, for example, with different glasses, a new hairstyle, or growing a beard, you can add an alternate appearance to improve the match rate. In Settings > Face ID & Passcode, tap "Set Up an Alternate Appearance" and follow the on-screen instructions to scan your face again. This stores a second facial representation alongside your primary one, without compromising security. Each appearance is stored separately and securely on your device, ensuring only authorized faces can unlock it.
Using Face ID with a mask and other settings
On iPhone 12 models or later running iOS 15.4 and later, you can enable "Face ID with a Mask" in Settings > Face ID & Passcode. This feature analyzes the unique characteristics around your eyes to recognize you even when your mouth and nose are covered. For accessibility, you can turn off "Require Attention for Face ID" in Settings > Accessibility, which means Face ID will work without requiring you to look directly at the device with open eyes. All Face ID data, including mathematical representations of your face, is encrypted and stored only on your device's Secure Enclave and is never backed up to iCloud, ensuring your privacy. Understanding how to use and manage Face ID settings gives you full control over when and how your face is used for authentication.
Troubleshooting when Face ID is not working
If Face ID fails to recognize you, try these fixes in order:
- Clean the TrueDepth camera system with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust or smudges.
- Ensure your face is within 10-20 inches (25-50 cm) of the device and that lighting is adequate, avoid extreme brightness or darkness.
- Remove any obstructions such as screen protectors, cases, or stickers covering the camera.
- Update your device to the latest version of iOS or iPadOS, as updates often include Face ID improvements.
If these steps don't resolve the issue, contact Apple Support for further assistance, as there may be a hardware-related problem.
For the wider topic, see using and managing Face ID.
