iPhone 12 Pro Max Face ID Failures and How to Fix Them

10 min readDec 14, 2023

Struggling with your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID? You’re not alone; nearly 15% of users report issues. In this guide, you’ll discover the intricacies of Face ID technology, common hiccups, and step-by-step solutions to get your biometric access back on track. We’ll delve into advanced troubleshooting techniques for those pesky, persistent problems. Master your device’s security features and stay ahead of the curve with the latest fixes for your iPhone’s facial recognition snags.

What is Face ID and How Does it Work

Face ID is your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s biometric authentication technology that leverages advanced sensors to map and recognize your facial features. You’ll set it up by enrolling your face, which allows secure unlocking and makes transactions seamless. However, you might encounter issues, particularly after iOS updates, but don’t worry, there are targeted fixes for these problems.

Understanding Face ID Technology

Before tackling the common issues with Face ID on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, it’s essential to grasp how this secure authentication system operates. Face ID technology uses the TrueDepth camera to create a precise facial map. When setting up Face ID, the Face ID sensor captures detailed depth data to recognize your unique facial features, ensuring swift and secure access to your device.

Setting Up Face ID on Your iPhone 12 Pro Max

To set up Face ID on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, you’ll first need to enroll your facial data in the device’s settings.

Navigate to Settings and tap on Face ID & Passcode.
Choose Set Up Face ID and position your face within the frame.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the facial scan.
If a Face ID issue arises, consider resetting Face ID in the same menu.

Using Face ID with a Mask

Understanding your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID feature is crucial, especially when you’re trying to use it while wearing a mask. To maintain security while accommodating masks, set up the face recognition considering the lower half may be obscured. If you’ve been unsuccessful, try using Face ID without a mask first, then add your mask and position your iPhone slightly higher on your face.

Face ID with Third-Party Apps

While you’re getting used to unlocking your iPhone 12 Pro Max with a mask, it’s also important to know how Face ID works with third-party apps. When a Face ID problem arises, precision is key:

Ensure third-party apps are updated.
Verify app permissions to use Face ID.
Check your Face ID settings for app compatibility.
Reset Face ID if it doesn’t work consistently.

Issues with Face ID Post iOS Updates

Many users experience Face ID malfunctions after an iOS update, but you can often resolve these issues with a few simple steps. First, ensure you’ve installed the latest version of iOS. Navigate to Settings, tap General, and select Software Update to check for updates. If your iPhone isn’t up to date, proceed with the software update and follow the on-screen instructions to optimize Face ID functionality.

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Common Face ID Problems and Troubleshooting

If your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID isn’t responding or has ceased functioning abruptly, you’re not alone. These glitches can often be traced to software hiccups or misconfigured settings post-reset. We’ll guide you through targeted fixes to restore your Face ID’s functionality swiftly and efficiently.

Face ID Not Working

Face ID issues on your iPhone 12 Pro Max can often stem from simple glitches to complex system errors, but there’s a range of troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve them.

Ensure nothing obstructs the TrueDepth camera.
Reset Face ID in settings.
Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version.
If persistent, contact Apple Support for professional assistance.

Face ID Stopped Working Suddenly

When your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID stops working unexpectedly, it’s crucial to identify and troubleshoot common problems right away. Begin by checking for updates that might fix Face ID failures. If issues persist, try to reset Face ID. Delve into settings, navigate to Face ID & Passcode, and re-enroll your facial data. If Face ID stopped working suddenly, a system reset might be the final recourse.

Fixing Face ID Not Working

Let’s move on to exploring common Face ID issues on your iPhone 12 Pro Max and the steps you can take to resolve them efficiently.

Check Your Face ID Settings: Ensure that Face ID is enabled for iPhone Unlock.
Clean Your Camera: Wipe the front camera to remove any obstructions.
Tap Reset Face ID: In Settings, reset Face ID to recalibrate.
Troubleshoot: If “Face ID is not available,” contact Phone Expert.

Solutions for Face ID Failure

Despite following the initial steps, if you’re still facing issues with Face ID on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, let’s delve into more specific solutions to get it functioning properly again.

IssueDiagnosisSolutionFace ID Not WorkingCamera ObstructionEnsure nothing blocks the TrueDepth camera.Face ID FailureEnvironmental FactorsAvoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.Inconsistent RecognitionFace Data AccuracyReset your Face ID and set it up anew.System GlitchesSoftware ProblemsTry to fix by updating iOS to the latest version.Continuous ErrorsHardware MalfunctionContact Apple Support for potential repair options.

Face ID Problems after iPhone or iPad Reset

After resetting your iPhone 12 Pro Max, you may encounter new challenges with Face ID that require specific troubleshooting steps.

Ensure Face ID is enabled in settings post-reset
Position your face squarely within the frame
If “Face ID not working,” enter your passcode and retry
For “try again later” message, reset Face ID set up under settings

Master these steps to restore Face ID functionality swiftly.

Steps to Fix Face ID Issues on iPhone 12 Pro Max

When tackling Face ID issues on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, start by performing a simple restart to refresh the system. If the problem persists, you should reset Face ID, ensuring you’re in a well-lit area when setting up your facial recognition anew. Additionally, verify that your Face ID settings are correct and look for any pending software updates that could resolve the glitch.

Restarting your iPhone

Your iPhone 12 Pro Max may simply need a restart to resolve Face ID failures. Here’s how to properly restart your device:

Press and quickly release thevolume up button
Press and quickly release the volume down button.
Hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.
Release the button and wait for the device to restart.

This process should fix the issue.

Resetting Face ID on iPhone 12 Pro Max

Why haven’t your Face ID issues resolved after a restart? Let’s try resetting Face ID on your iPhone 12 Pro Max. Navigate to “Settings,” select “Face ID & Passcode,” and tap “Reset Face ID.” This action clears your facial data, allowing you to set up Face ID anew. It’s crucial to fix the Face ID not working, ensuring Face ID to unlock functions optimally on your iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Checking Face ID Settings

After resetting Face ID on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, ensure you’ve configured the settings correctly by going into ‘Settings’ > ‘Face ID & Passcode’ and checking that all necessary options are turned on.

Verify ‘iPhone Unlock’ is active
Ensure ‘Wallet & Apple Pay’ is enabled
Check ‘Attention Aware Features’ are on
Confirm ‘Set Up an Alternate Appearance’ if needed

Double-check these to troubleshoot Face ID not working issues.

Resetting All Settings on Your iPhone

If you’re still facing Face ID issues on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, consider resetting all settings as a more drastic troubleshooting step. This will not erase content but will restore system settings to factory defaults. Remember, you’ll need your passcode. To reset, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. For assistance, contact Apple Support to expertly fix iPhone glitches.

Checking for Software Updates

While you’re troubleshooting Face ID on your iPhone 12 Pro Max, it’s crucial to check for the latest software updates, as they often contain fixes for security and functionality issues.

Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
Tap ‘Download and Install’ if an update is available.
Wait for your iPhone to download the update.
Select ‘Install Now’ to upgrade your iPhone to the latest software version.

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Advanced Troubleshooting and Technical Support

If your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID still isn’t responding after initial troubleshooting, it’s time to consider contacting Apple Support for expert guidance. You’ll need to inspect your TrueDepth camera and Face ID sensors for any hardware issues that could be causing the failure. As a final measure, a factory reset can resolve underlying software problems, but ensure you’ve backed up your data before proceeding with this step.

Contacting Apple Support for Face ID Issues

When you’ve exhausted all self-help options for your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID issues, it’s time to contact Apple Support for expert assistance.

Schedule a technical appointment at your local Apple Store.
Discuss persistent Face ID not working errors.
Inquire about the integrity of Face ID components.
Consider professional screen replacement if related to the Face ID malfunction.

Truedepth Camera and Face ID Sensor Troubleshooting

After contacting Apple Support, you’ll likely delve into advanced troubleshooting of the TrueDepth camera and Face ID sensors, which are critical for the facial recognition technology to function properly. For your iPhone 12 Pro Max, if Face ID is not working, rigorously inspect the sensor’s integrity. Resetting or recalibrating the system may resolve issues, ensuring your ID not working on iPhone situation is expertly addressed.

Factory Reset as a Last Resort

Should your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID continue to malfunction despite previous efforts, a factory reset stands as the definitive step in troubleshooting before seeking professional technical support.

Back up your data to iCloud or iTunes.
Go to Settings > General > Reset.
Choose ‘Erase All Content and Settings’.
Set up your iPhone Pro Max as new and test Face ID.

If Face ID is not working post-reset, contact Apple Support.

Using Face ID without Third-Party Apps

If Face ID still isn’t working on your iPhone 12 Pro Max after a factory reset, it’s time to isolate the issue by disabling third-party apps that may conflict with the feature. To ensure optimal performance, use Face ID to unlock your device in a controlled setting, eliminating variables. Should the new Face ID setup fail, contact Apple Support for a thorough technical evaluation.

Seeking Assistance for Face ID Still Not Working

When you’ve exhausted basic troubleshooting steps and Face ID is still unresponsive, it’s time to seek professionals. Your iPhone 12 Pro Max’s Face ID not working may demand a deeper look into the TrueDepth camera system. Here’s your action plan:

Contact us for a diagnostic.
Visit an of our stores located at 6 different locations at Sunshine Coast & Bundaberg for in-person help.
Consider a remote session with a technician.
Prepare for a potential reset or repair.

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Future of Face ID and Upcoming iPhone Models

As you look beyond your iPhone 12 Pro Max, it’s crucial to note that Face ID is set for significant advancements in the iPhone 13 series and beyond. Expect innovations in the iPhone 14 that not only refine facial recognition but also integrate it more seamlessly with the iOS ecosystem. Keep an eye out for updates that enhance Face ID on older models and introduce new features for iPad Pro users.

Face ID Technology on iPhone 13 and Beyond

Every iPhone 13 and later model incorporates an advanced Face ID system, ensuring you’ll experience a more seamless and secure authentication process.

Enhanced TrueDepth camera system for accurate facial mapping
Algorithmic improvements reducing instances of Face ID not working
Continued integration of cutting-edge Face ID technology
Proactive troubleshooting protocols for any potential Face ID issues

Master the most intricate functionalities of your iPhone 13’s Face ID.

Innovations in Face ID for iPhone 14

Looking ahead, you’ll find that the iPhone 14 takes Face ID to new heights with its refined biometric technology and enhanced security features. If your Face ID is not working, a precise reset process allows for quick resolution. Mastery of Face ID settings ensures it works seamlessly. Remember, if Face ID is already set up, troubleshooting is streamlined, maintaining the robust protection you expect from an iPhone.

Enhancements in Face ID on Previous iPhone Models

In light of the advancements in the iPhone 14, you’ll find that previous models like the iPhone 12 Pro Max have also benefited from significant Face ID enhancements, setting the stage for future innovations. Here’s what to know:

Improved algorithm efficiency for quicker recognition
Enhanced security with deeper neural network integration
Streamlined setup process to get Face ID and set it up faster
Increased reliability, reducing “Face ID not working” issues

Face ID Updates in the Latest iOS Versions

You’ll be pleased to know that the latest iOS updates have further refined Face ID, ensuring your iPhone 12 Pro Max stays ahead with cutting-edge security and convenience. If you encounter ‘iPhone Face ID not working’ issues, initiate a reset. The latest iOS versions feature robust Face ID updates, streamlining recognition processes. Master these updates to resolve ‘not working’ glitches for seamless access.

New Features for Face ID on iPad Pro

As you explore Face ID’s evolution, the iPad Pro introduces new features that foreshadow exciting advancements for the technology in upcoming iPhone models.

Enhanced Portrait Mode: Utilizing improved depth perception for superior focus.
Robust Screen Protector Compatibility: Face ID may now function seamlessly with various protectors.
Advanced Security Algorithms: Heightened protection available on iPhone soon.
Wider Field of View: Allowing quicker recognition on the iPad Pro.