If Touch ID isn't working on your iPhone or iPad
If you can't unlock your iOS device using Touch ID, can't enroll a fingerprint, or you're asked to enter your passcode, learn what to do.
Follow these steps. Try using Touch ID after each step:
- Make sure that you have the latest version of iOS.
- Make sure that your fingers and the Home button are clean and dry.* For the Home button, use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris.
- Your finger should cover the Home button completely, touching the surrounding metal ring. While Touch ID is scanning, you shouldn't tap too quickly or move your finger around.
- If you're using a case or screen protector, make sure it doesn't cover the Home button or the surrounding ring.
- Go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode and make sure that iPhone Unlock or iTunes & App Store is on, and that you've enrolled one or more fingerprints.
- Try enrolling a different finger.
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Still not working?
If the previous steps didn't help, you see "Failed—unable to complete Touch ID setup", or either of the following happen when you go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode, take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support:
- You can't turn on Touch ID
- Touch ID is dimmed or grayed out
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If you need to enter your passcode
You might need to enter your passcode or Apple ID instead of using Touch ID in these situations:
- You just restarted your device
- Your fingerprint isn't recognized five times in a row
- You haven't unlocked your device in more than 48 hours
- You just enrolled or deleted fingerprints
- You're trying to open Touch ID & Passcode in the Settings menu
- You used Emergency SOS.
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* Moisture, lotions, sweat, oils, cuts, or dry skin might affect fingerprint recognition. Certain activities can also temporarily affect fingerprint recognition, including exercising, showering, swimming, cooking, or other conditions or changes that affect your fingerprint.