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Phones & Tablets

What can I try if Face ID is not working and an iPhone will not reset?

Answer

Use the device passcode for unlock and settings while Face ID is unavailable. For reset, go through Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone and enter the device passcode—not Face ID—when asked.

Before you start: stop right away if…

  • Erasing an iPhone deletes local data unless you have a current backup.

Follow these steps

  1. Unlock with the passcode

    Wake the iPhone and enter the device passcode instead of relying on Face ID.

    You should see: You can open the Home Screen and Settings even while Face ID is unavailable.

  2. Restart, then recheck Face ID

    Restart the iPhone, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode, enter the passcode, and see whether Set Up Face ID or Reset Face ID is available after the “try again later” message clears.

    You should see: Face ID setup becomes available again, or the same message persists and you continue with passcode-only access.

  3. Start reset with passcode confirmation

    If you still need to reset, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone, choose Erase All Content and Settings, and enter the device passcode when prompted.

    You should see: The erase flow accepts the passcode and continues without requiring Face ID.

  4. Use recovery mode only if Settings reset is blocked

    If Settings will not erase the phone, connect to a computer and use Apple’s official recovery-mode restore instructions for your iPhone model.

    You should see: The computer offers an update or restore path that can reset the device when on-phone erase is stuck.

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Extra tips

What to look for: The message “Face ID is not working, try again later,” plus a reset screen that keeps asking for authentication you cannot complete with Face ID.

Before you change anything: Make sure you still know the iPhone passcode. Back up to iCloud or a computer before any erase. Avoid third-party “Face ID fix” apps or unexpected support calls. Never share your Apple ID password or verification codes with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.

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