With the iPhone X, Apple introduced Face ID unlocking. Since iOS 15, however, numerous iPhone users have complained about problems activating face recognition. Often the message "Face ID cannot be activated on this iPhone" appears. We give you eleven tips on what you can do in this case.

Install the latest iOS update

In order for Face ID activation to work properly, your iPhone must be up to date. You can check this under "Settings > General > Software update". If an update is available, it will be shown to you and you can start the download.

Take off glasses and other accessories

To be able to use Face ID, your face must not be covered. Take off your glasses or sunglasses and, if necessary, put your mouth and nose protection aside. As a general rule, anything on your face can interfere with standard Face ID activation.

Important : Since iOS 15.4 you can use Face ID with a mask . In addition to the mask, you can also add glasses later in the settings.

Make sure you have enough light

Make sure you are in a bright room. The iPhone camera cannot see you (well enough) in dark rooms. To activate Face ID, you should either turn on the lights or go outside.

Hold the iPhone properly

• To enable Face ID, you must hold your iPhone in portrait mode, not landscape mode.
• The distance to the camera is important: an arm's length is optimal.
• Your entire face must be clearly visible.

Check the camera

• If you use a protective film or case, it could have slipped and cover the camera sensor.
• Dust and dirt are also a disruptive factor for the camera. Swipe the iPhone screen thoroughly once.
• The camera may be damaged. Check whether you can take selfies or whether errors occur when doing so.

Turn Face ID off and on again

Have you tried everything but still get the message "Face ID can't be activated on this iPhone"? Try turning Face ID on and off in Settings. How to proceed:

1. In Settings, open Face ID & Passcode.
2. Enter your device code when prompted.
3. Under "Use Face ID for" turn off "Unlock iPhone", "iTunes & App Store", "Apple Pay" and "Autofill Password".
4. Wait a few minutes and enable the functions again.
5. Try again to see if you can use Face ID.

Reset Face ID settings

You can reset the function in the Face ID settings. Sometimes this helps to solve the problem.

1. In Settings, open Face ID & Passcode.
2. Enter your code when prompted.
3. Tap on "Reset Face ID" and on "Configure Face ID".

Perform a forced restart

In addition to a normal restart, a forced restart of your iPhone can also help with various problems. Proceed as follows:

1. Press and immediately release the volume up button on the left side of the iPhone.
2. Press and immediately release the volume down button.
3. Press and hold the side button on the right side of the iPhone.
4. Don't release the side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen.

Reset network settings

Still having troubles with Face ID activation? Then you should reset the network settings. Attention: Saved WLAN passwords and Bluetooth devices will be lost. You then have to set up the connections again.

How to proceed:

1. In Settings, tap General.
2. Select "Transfer/Reset iPhone".
3. Tap on "Reset".
4. Select "Network Settings".
5. Enter your code when prompted.
6. Confirm with "Reset".

Factory reset your iPhone

None of the Approaches Worked – Face ID Still Striking? Then there is one last drastic step: Factory reset your iPhone. Attention: All your data will be lost. It is therefore essential to create a backup of your data beforehand. If you have made the data backup, proceed as follows:

1. In Settings, tap General.
2. Select "Transfer/Reset iPhone".
3. Tap "Erase All Content & Settings" and "Continue".
4. Enter your code when prompted.
5. Enter your Apple ID password and select "Erase Everything".

Contact Apple Support

Are you still unable to use Face ID because the message "Face ID can't be activated on this iPhone" keeps popping up? Then contact Apple Support .

Summary: This can help with Face ID issues

• Keep iPhone up to date with updates
• Do not cover face and camera
• Keep your face and camera at arm's length
• Make sure there is enough light in the area
• Hold iPhone in portrait mode
• Perform a forced restart
• Reset network settings or iPhone completely
• Contact Apple Support