How can I reset Face ID on iPhone 14 without backing up to iCloud?

fan43 wrote:

Ok every time I bring up Face ID and passcode it says Face ID not available. Looking online the iPhone backup was suggested. Then you know my story. I don’t back up to iCloud. So what is the solution here please. Thx

That error would usually indicate a hardware problem. If you have a case or screen protector, I would recommend to test with those off to make sure they are not interfering with the True Depth camera. The only reason why I could guess that an internet search recommended to do an iCloud backup is because if your device does need serviced, it is always recommended to have a backup first. It makes no difference if it is an iCloud backup or a backup using your computer.

fan43 wrote:

Maybe I used the wrong phraseology here. I need to get Face ID working. The number 1 solution was to backup iPhone 14 on iCloud. So since I don’t use ICloud I backup to an external hard drive. I start to bring up Face ID and immediately goes off to an error message to backup iPhone. What is your suggestion?

First of all, you cannot backup an iPhone to an external hard drive. You can backup an iPhone to Finder on a Mac or iTunes on a Windows computer. But this isn't your issue. If Face ID isn't working, backing it up won't honestly solve an issues with Face ID not working. They aren't tied to each other.

You may have an issue with the True Depth Camera on your iPhone. See this link for suggestions if Face ID isn't working, but if nothing helps, you're next option would be to schedule an appointment at your closest Apple Store Genius Bar for evaluation and service options --> If Face ID isn't working on your iPhone or iPad Pro - Apple Support

It’s rare that one chooses to reset their Face ID. If it’s not too personal, it might help if you tell us what you’re hoping to accomplish by doing that. Perhaps there is a better way.

I have seen no relation to Face ID and backing up where one would cause a problem for the other. Face ID data is not stored in iCloud, so not sure what the message may be referring to. A screenshot may be helpful as long as it does not show any personal information.