10 Methods to Fix Face ID Is Not Available on iPhone
"Face ID just randomly stopped working on my iPhone 13. I updated to iOS 18, and it still won't work. I tried to reset it, and now it keeps telling me that "Face ID is not available". I am incredibly frustrated and wonder if there is any advice or if this is a software bug that needs correction." - Megasaurus2656 from Apple Community
You picked up your iPhone, tried to unlock it with Face ID. And faced a message that showed "Face ID Is Not Available". Now your expensive iPhone is asking for your passcode like it's 2010. Annoying, right? Don't worry. This guide walks you through exactly how to fix the Face ID Not Available error — whether it's a glitch after a software update, a hardware issue, or something more obscure. Let's dive in.
- Part 1. Why Is My Face ID Not Available?
- Part 2. How to Fix Face ID is Not Available on iPhone?
- Solution 1. Clean the TrueDepth Camera
- Solution 2. Restart Your iPhone
- Solution 3. Check Your Face ID Settings
- Solution 4. Force Restart Your iPhone
- Solution 5. Add an Alternate AppearanceD
- Solution 6. Reset Face ID and Set It up Again
- Solution 7. Update iOS Version
- Solution 8. Reset All Settings
- Solution 9. Use TunesKit iPhone Unlocker HOT
- Solution 10. Contact Apple Support
- Part 3. FAQ Related to Face ID Unavailable
- Part 4. Conclusion
Part 1. Why Is Face ID Not Available on iPhone?
Sometimes, the "Face ID Not Available" message shows up right after an iOS update. Other times, it appears out of nowhere. When it appears, it usually means your iPhone's TrueDepth camera system is unable to function due to the following reasons:
- Software Glitches - If your iPhone has an outdated iOS version, it may cause compatibility issues. Also, if there are occasional glitches, it may impact Face ID performance.
- Environmental Conditions - Dust in Face ID sensor, direct sunlight, certain hats, scarves, or sunglasses might interfere with Face ID functionality.
- Wrong Face ID Settings - The fault settings on your device, or there are issues with configurations, it may disable Face ID.
- Hardware Damage - If the Face ID sensor (TrueDepth camera system) has been damaged, Face ID might be permanently unavailable.
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Part 2. How to Fix Face ID Not Available Try Setting up Later?
It must be annoying when you encounter the Face ID not available try setting up later issue. The good news is it is fixable. Try the following solutions now, starting from the simplest one.
Solution 1. Clean the TrueDepth Camera & Check for Obstructions
The TrueDepth camera is essential for Face ID to function, as it captures your facial data to unlock the iPhone. Make sure your fingers, phone case, or any other objects aren't covering the camera. Also, if there's dust or smudges on the lens, gently clean it to ensure it captures a clear image of your face.
Step 1. Take a clean, dry microfiber cloth and gently wipe the entire notch area at the top of your iPhone's display. Don't use any harsh cleaning agents.
Step 2. Remove your iPhone case and any screen protector you have installed. Some bulky cases or poorly designed screen protectors can interfere with the sensors.
Step 3. Try using Face ID again. If it works, you've found your problem. You can either use your iPhone without the case/protector or find one that is certified not to interfere with the TrueDepth camera.
Why this works: - Smudges, dirt, or even a misaligned screen protector can prevent the camera from getting a clear view of your face.
Solution 2. Restart Your iPhone
Another resort for iPhone users to fix various iOS problems like Face ID is not available is to reboot the iPhone. You can follow the below steps to reboot your iPhone.
For iPhone 8 or later models: Press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons concurrently. When the slide to power off slider appears on your iPhone, drag the slider to turn off your iPhone. Wait for 30 seconds and keep pressing the Side button to turn on your iPhone.
For iPhone 7 or earlier models: Press and hold the Side button until the slide to power off slider appears on the top of your iPhone screen. Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone. Wait for 30 seconds and keep pressing the Side button to turn on your iPhone.
Why this works:- Restarting your iPhone clears out temporary files and flushes the system's active memory, which can resolve minor software glitches that are preventing Face ID from initializing properly.
Solution 3. Check Your Face ID Settings
Sometimes, the Face ID feature itself or one of its specific functions might have been accidentally disabled in Settings. It's worth a quick check.
Step 1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
Step 2. Enter your passcode to access the menu.
Step 3. Under the USE FACE ID FOR section, make sure that iPhone Unlock is toggled on (green). It's also a good idea to ensure other features you use, like Apple Pay, are also enabled.
Why this works:- If the core settings for Face ID are turned off, the system won't even attempt to scan your face, leading to an error message.
Solution 4. Force Restart Your iPhone
A force restart is different from a standard restart. It's a deeper, more powerful reboot that can solve more stubborn software issues.
For iPhone 8 or later models: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button. Then quickly press and release the Volume Down button. Press and hold the Side button (Power) until the Apple logo appears, then release the button.
For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Side button. Keep holding until the Apple logo appears, then release both buttons.
For iPhone 6 or ealier models: Press and hold both the Home button and the Power (Side/Top) button. Keep holding until you see the Apple logo.
Why this works:- A force restart abruptly cuts power to the system and forces everything to start from scratch, which is more effective at clearing persistent glitches than a standard reboot.
Solution 5. Add an Alternate Appearance
Face ID is designed to learn and adapt to small changes in your appearance. However, a significant change can sometimes confuse it. Adding an "Alternate Appearance" can help the system recognize you more consistently.
Step 1. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
Step 2. Enter your passcode.
Step 3. Tap on Set Up an Alternate Appearance.
Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your face, just like you did during the initial setup.
Why this works:- This gives the TrueDepth camera a second, distinct reference scan of your face, improving its accuracy and ability to recognize you under different conditions (e.g., with and without glasses).
Solution 6. Reset Face ID and Set It up Again
If the fixes above haven't worked, your original Face ID data may have become corrupted. The next logical step is to erase it and start fresh. You can first remove the Face ID on your iPhones and then set up a new ID to fix this Face ID is not available problem. Now follow the steps below to reset the Face ID.
Step 1. Go to Settings.
Step 2. Click on the Face ID & Passcode option. Enter your passcode.
Step 3. Click on the Reset Face ID option to remove the Face ID on iPhone.
Step 4. Then, set up the Face ID again.
Why this works:- This deletes your stored facial map from the iPhone's secure enclave and forces the system to create a brand new one, eliminating any potential data corruption issues.
Solution 7. Update iOS Version
Try to update your iOS system version to the latest version if you are now still using an outdated version. If your Face ID not available try again later issue is caused by a known software bug, updating your iPhone is the most direct way to fix it.
Step 1. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Step 2. If an update is available, you'll see it here. Tap Download and Install.
Why this works:- An iOS update can patch specific bugs in the software that controls the TrueDepth camera and Face ID authentication.
Solution 8. Reset All Settings
Resetting all settings on your iPhone will not erase all data and content but it will reset the phone settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Cellular, Notifications, etc. back to the default settings. After resetting the settings, the Face ID not available try again later problem should be fixed.
Step 1. Open Settings app on your iPhone.
Step 2. Tap General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Step 3. Tap Reset > Reset All Settings. Enter your passcode to confirm if prompted.
Why this works:- This action resets all system-level settings to their factory defaults, which can resolve conflicts or corrupted configuration files that are interfering with Face ID.
Solution 9. Use TunesKit iPhone Unlocker
If you forgot iPhone passcode, you can use TunesKit iPhone Unlocker to remove Face ID and set it up again.
It is a professional iOS unlocking program with different features like removing Face ID, screen lock, MDM restrictions, Screen Time restrictions. In different scenarios like Face ID is not working on iPhone, or iPhone password expired, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker can always be the best solution. Besides, this program has a concise and user-friendly interface, and most users can unlock their iPhones with simple clicks.
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Now, let's see how to use TunesKit iPhone Unlocker to fix Face ID is not available on iPhone.
Step 1Connect the iPhone with PC
Download and install TunesKit iPhone Unlocker on your computer or Mac. Then, connect your disabled iPhone to the computer. When your iPhone is detected by TunesKit iPhone Unlocker, click on the Unlock iOS Screen option and then select the Start button.
Step 2Put iPhone into Recovery Mode
Then, you will need to put your iPhone into Recovery mode and then click on the Next button for the next step. If you don't know how to put iPhone into Recovery mode, you can follow the onscreen instruction to make it.
Step 3Download Firmware Package
Then, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker will show you detailed information about your iPhone. If there is something wrong, please correct it manually. Then, click on the Download button.
Step 4Fix Face ID is Not Available on iPhone
Now click Unlock button and TunesKit iPhone Unlocker will start to fix Face ID is not available on iPhone as soon as the firmware package is downloaded. After unlocking Face ID on iPhone, all the data and content will be removed.
Why this works:- Reset your original Face ID data, so you can set it up again. This is specifically helpful when you don't know your screen passcode.
Solution 10. Contact Apple Support
If you've tried every single software fix on this list and you're still seeing the "Face ID is Not Available" error, it's time to face the tough reality: you likely have a hardware issue. In this case, you should ask Apple Support for a help. You can schedule an appointment at an Apple Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. They have specialized diagnostic tools that can confirm a hardware failure in minutes.
Why this works:- Apple Support is responsible for addressing every issue you encounter when using their products. If your iPhone is under its one-year limited warranty or covered by AppleCare+, the repair will likely be free.
Part 3. FAQ Related to Face ID Unavailable
Still curious about Face ID not available issue? Check out these quick answers to the related questions.
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Q1. Can I still use my iPhone if Face ID is broken?
Yes. Your iPhone will function perfectly fine using your passcode for everything—unlocking the device, authorizing payments with Apple Pay, and signing into apps. It's just less convenient.
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Q2. Why did Face ID stop working right after an iOS update?
This usually points to a software bug in the update itself. Apple frequently releases iOS updates that include bug fixes, so you can check for another, newer update.
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Q3. Can a screen replacement break Face ID?
Absolutely. This is one of the most common causes of hardware failure. The TrueDepth camera components are delicate and must be transferred perfectly during a screen replacement. Unofficial, third-party repair shops often lack the tools or expertise to do this correctly, leading to permanent damage. Always use Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider for screen repairs.
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Q4. How much does it cost to fix a broken TrueDepth camera?
If you're out of warranty, the cost is high. Because the camera is paired to the logic board, Apple doesn't typically replace just the camera. It's often classified as an 'other damage' or 'whole unit replacement' repair, which can cost several hundred dollars.
Part 4. Conclusion
That's all! In this post, you will learn the top solutions to fix the Face ID is not available problem. When the Face ID is not able to unlock an iPhone, users will have to enter the passcode to unlock the phones, which is so inconvenient. Hope that you can easily fix this annoying problem by using the above solutions, and TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is the most recommended one. If you are still having other problems, please feel free to leave us a comment.
