To set up Face ID on an iPhone 13, open Settings, tap Face ID & Passcode, enter your passcode, and select Set Up Face ID. Position your face inside the frame and slowly move your head to complete both scans. The iPhone 13 uses Face ID rather than a fingerprint sensor or Touch ID.
How to Set Up Face ID on an iPhone 13
Face ID uses the TrueDepth camera system at the top of the display. Before you begin, make sure nothing is covering that camera area. You also need a passcode because iOS uses it as a backup whenever Face ID is unavailable.
Step 1: Open Settings
Tap the Settings app on the Home Screen or in the App Library.
Step 2: Open Face ID & Passcode
Scroll down and tap Face ID & Passcode. Enter the current iPhone passcode when prompted.
Step 3: Start Face ID Setup
Tap Set Up Face ID, hold the iPhone in portrait orientation, and tap Get Started.
Step 4: Complete the First Scan
Position your face inside the on-screen frame. Slowly move your head in a circle so the camera can capture your face from different angles. If moving your head is difficult, tap Accessibility Options for an alternative setup method.
Step 5: Complete the Second Scan
Tap Continue after the first scan, then repeat the circular head movement. Tap Done when the second scan finishes.
Step 6: Choose What Face ID Can Do
On the Face ID & Passcode screen, turn on the features you want under Use Face ID For. Depending on your settings and apps, Face ID can unlock the iPhone, authorize purchases, fill passwords, and open protected apps.
After setup, wake the iPhone and look at it. When the lock icon opens, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to reach the Home Screen.
Important iPhone 13 Face ID Settings
- Face ID with a Mask: On supported iOS versions, iPhone 12 and later can recognize the area around your eyes while you wear a mask. Open Settings > Face ID & Passcode to see whether this option is available.
- Alternate Appearance: Use this when your appearance can look substantially different. Apple provides one alternate-appearance scan.
- Require Attention for Face ID: Keeping this enabled makes Face ID check that your eyes are open and directed toward the phone. Turning it off can make authentication easier in some accessibility situations but reduces that protection.
- Attention Aware Features: These features can keep the display from dimming while you are looking at it and lower alert volume when you are paying attention.
What to Do If Face ID Setup Fails
- Remove any case, screen protector, dirt, or moisture that blocks the TrueDepth camera area.
- Hold the phone in portrait orientation and keep your face within a comfortable arm’s-length distance.
- Make sure your eyes, nose, and mouth are visible during the initial scan.
- Restart the iPhone and install available iOS updates.
- Return to Settings > Face ID & Passcode, tap Reset Face ID, and run setup again.
If the iPhone reports that Face ID is unavailable or the TrueDepth camera is not working after these checks, contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the iPhone 13 have fingerprint recognition?
No. The iPhone 13 has no Home button or Touch ID fingerprint sensor. It uses Face ID for biometric authentication and a passcode as the backup method.
Can I register two different people with Face ID?
Face ID is designed around one primary user. The Alternate Appearance option can sometimes recognize a second appearance, but sharing biometric access also gives that person access to actions protected by Face ID. A personal passcode and biometric profile are safer.
Does Face ID work in the dark?
Yes. The TrueDepth system uses infrared technology, so normal room lighting is not required. The camera area still needs a clear view of your face.
Why does my iPhone sometimes require the passcode?
iOS deliberately requires the passcode after certain events, such as restarting the phone, receiving several failed Face ID attempts, or going an extended period without unlocking. This is expected security behavior.
Can I still use Face ID while wearing glasses?
Face ID works with many glasses and sunglasses. Some lenses that block infrared light can prevent recognition, so remove them if Face ID repeatedly fails.
Summary
Open Settings > Face ID & Passcode, choose Set Up Face ID, and complete the two guided face scans. Then select which features may use Face ID. Remember that the iPhone 13 does not support fingerprint setup; articles that direct you to Touch ID or a Home button describe a different iPhone model.