iPhone Problems

[2024] 10 Tips to Fix Unable to Activate Face ID on This iPhone 14/15

by Jenefey Aaron   Updated on 2023-09-28 / Update for  iPhone Fix

Release of iOS 17 update has added a galore of new features and functionalities to your iPhone. But, along with all the goodness, there are bugs that keep triggering a number of errors and issues. 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone' is being one of the major concerns in this regards. This error hinders the proper functioning of your Face ID to secure your iPhone. The latest iPhone models including iPhone 15/14/13/12 dominantly use Face ID system. With compromised or unresponsive Face ID, device performance is at stake. So, to resolve this 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone' issue, we have collated quick ways for you.

Tip 1: Ensure Nothing Is Covering the TrueDepth Camera

The very first step to fix 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone' issue is checking that the TrueDepth Camera on your iPhone is not being obstructed by a screen protector or iPhone case. Make double sure about any dirt or debris being on the camera and blocking to recognize your face. A clear camera will let the Face ID work effectively.

Tip 2: Make sure Nothing Is Covering Your Face

Your face should be recognized by the TrueDepth Camera properly. Eyes, mouth and nose should be visible on the camera and make sure not to wear any sunglasses. Make sure to be in a well-lit place.

Tip 3: Put iPhone in Portrait Orientation

The camera orientation is paramount, so put the iPhone in portrait mode and face the camera. Ensure that enough light is falling on your face to let the Face ID capture your features properly..

Tip 4: Ensure iPhone is an Arm's Length or Closer

Being away from the iPhone won't be able to capture your distinct features required for a Face ID. So, it's recommended to be within arm's length of the camera and get your face recognized. Ensure that light is on your face while you face the camera.

Tip 5: Turn Off/On Face ID If Phone 14/13 Unable to Activate Face Id

Sometimes turning the Face ID off and on would fix the problem. Here are the steps.

  • Go to 'Settings' > 'Face ID & Passcode' > 'Use Face ID' > turn down the 'iPhone Unlock'.
  • Now, wait for some time and again go to 'Settings' and repeat the process. But, toggle on the 'iPhone Unlock' at the end.
unable to activate face id on this iphone

Tip 6: Reset Face ID on iPhone 15/14/13

To resolve the 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone', you can try resetting Face ID on your iPhone. Launch 'Settings' and tap 'Face ID & Passcode' > 'Reset Face ID' and you are good to go.

unable to activate face id

Tip 7: Force Restart Your iPhone 15/14/13/X/XS (Max)/XR

Now, you got to try force restarting your iPhone, as its one of the trusted ways when nothing works to fix iOS issues. It might get your iPhone back to work and resolve 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone' problem.

Force Restart an iPhone XS/XS Max/XR/X/8

  • Click and let go of the 'Volume Up' key and repeat the same with the 'Volume Down' key.
  • Push down the 'Sleep/Wake' key till Apple logo appears on iPhone screen.

    unable to activate face id on iphone x

Tip 8: Reset All Settings

Well, if force restarting too didn't solve the issue, then there is no harm in trying this method.

  • Browse, 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Reset' > 'Reset All Settings'.
  • Now, key in the passcode when prompted and confirm your actions.
iphone x unable to activate face id

Tip 9: Update Your iPhone to Latest iOS 17

Well, iOS 16 update might have gone wrong on your iPhone sabotaging Face ID functionalities. We suggest you for a fresh update.

  • Connect to a stable Wi-Fi and click 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Software Update'.
  • Hit 'Download and Install' > 'Install' > enter passcode.
  • Keep your iPhone fully charged, so it gets updated automatically.

    iphone unable to activate face id

Tip 10: Fix Face ID Activation Issue with ReiBoot (No Data Loss)

Well, when nothing works for resolving the 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone' problem, you can always turn to Tenorshare ReiBoot. This software is an ultimate way for fixing major iOS issues without any data loss. Starting from problematic Face ID, frozen iPhone, iPhone stuck on headphones, stuck on Apple logo, unresponsive screen, or any other issue for that matter can be fixed with this tool. The 'Repair Operating System' (Fix All iOS Stuck) feature weaves its magic and brings your iPhone back in track. You can also solve the iOS downgrade or upgrade related issues over both Mac and Windows computers easily. It can even get the iPhone out of 'recovery mode' with ease.

Here is the detailed guide for fixing 'Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone' on your iPhone X/XS/XS Max using Tenorshare ReiBoot.

  • Install ReiBoot after downloading it from the official website on your computer. launch and connect your iPhone to the system. Hit the 'Repair Operating System' option on the program interface.

    fix unable to activate face id iphone x - reiboot
  • Tap 'Start Repair' button as the next step. Then hit on the 'Download' button to get the suitable firmware package for your device. This step is vital to make your device work again as normal.

    iphone xr unable to activate face id - reiboot
  • Again click on the 'Start Repair' button over the following window and wait a while. You can now see the repairing process on the screen.

    face id cannot be activated on this iphone - reiboot

Conclusion

From the above article, it is prominent that be it "Unable to activate Face ID on this iPhone" issue or any other iOS problems, Tenorshare ReiBoot can fix it swiftly without causing any data loss. For a reliable and effective method of iOS issue resolving you can always pick this tool for yourself.