My iPhone asks for passcode with Face ID

Why is my device asking for passcode pretty regularly? I thought face identification is supposed to be the best out there ?


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iPhone 14 Pro Max, iOS 16

Posted on May 29, 2023 3:52 PM

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Posted on May 29, 2023 4:02 PM

Let me see if I can provide you with some situations where your iPhone will continue to ask for the passcode regularly, even though it features Face ID as the primary authentication method.


While Face ID is indeed a highly secure and convenient way to unlock your iPhone, there are certain situations where it may prompt you for the passcode instead. Here are a few common reasons:


1. Phone restart or software update: Whenever your iPhone is restarted or has undergone a software update, it requires you to enter the passcode as an additional security measure. This is a standard procedure to protect your data.


2. Unrecognized face: If Face ID fails to recognize your face accurately, it may prompt you for the passcode. This can happen if you're wearing a hat, scarf, or sunglasses, or if the lighting conditions are poor.


3. Extended period of inactivity: To ensure maximum security, your iPhone will ask for the passcode if it has been inactive for more than 48 hours or if it hasn't been unlocked with Face ID for more than 6.5 days.


Remember that Face ID is designed to strike a balance between convenience and security. While it works remarkably well in most scenarios, having the passcode as a fallback option ensures that your device remains protected even in unusual situations.

64 replies

Jun 20, 2024 4:11 PM in response to Irishbhoy1967

If you have turned off “Require attention for Face ID” that is why it keeps asking for your passcode. I turned that back on yesterday and it has not required me to enter the password continuously like it was before.


To be doubly safe, I set up an alternate appearance where my hair is pinned back at home and I looked terrible. I also reset my Face ID just to clear cover all my bases.







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My iPhone asks for passcode with Face ID

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