Easy Steps to Disable Face ID on iPhone 12
Wondering how to remove Face ID on your iPhone 12? It’s a simple process that involves a few taps in your settings. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to disable this feature with ease, ensuring your device only unlocks when you want it to.
After you remove Face ID, you’ll need to enter a passcode to unlock your iPhone 12. This could be a bit more time-consuming, but it adds an extra layer of security if you’re concerned about the potential for unauthorized access to your device.
Step by Step Tutorial to Remove Face ID on iPhone 12
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to know that removing Face ID will require you to set up a passcode if you haven’t already. This will ensure your iPhone remains secure.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Navigate to your iPhone’s settings to get started.
The Settings app is where you can tweak most of the customizable features on your iPhone. Look for the gear icon on your home screen to open it.
Step 2: Scroll Down and Tap on ‘Face ID & Passcode’
This option is usually located a little way down the menu.
In this menu, you’ll find all the settings related to unlocking your iPhone and making payments.
Step 3: Enter Your Passcode if Prompted
You’ll need to verify your identity to make changes to these settings.
If you’ve set a passcode, you’ll need to enter it before you can access the Face ID settings. This is to prevent unauthorized changes to your security settings.
Step 4: Tap the ‘Reset Face ID’ Option
This will remove your facial data from the device.
By resetting Face ID, your iPhone will no longer recognize your face as a means to unlock. It’s essentially like starting fresh.
Tips for Managing Face ID on iPhone 12
- If you’re just looking to temporarily disable Face ID, you can quickly press the side button five times to bring up the Emergency SOS screen, which also disables Face ID until you enter your passcode.
- Consider disabling Face ID if you’re going to be wearing a mask or anything else that might obstruct your face and cause the feature to not work properly.
- Remember that disabling Face ID also means that you won’t be able to use it for Apple Pay or to autofill passwords.
- You can always re-enable Face ID later by going back into the ‘Face ID & Passcode’ settings and setting up your facial data again.
- Keep your passcode safe and secure; if Face ID is turned off, this will be your primary method of unlocking your iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I forget my passcode after disabling Face ID?
You will need to reset your iPhone using a computer and iTunes or the Find My iPhone feature to regain access.
Can I still use Apple Pay without Face ID?
Yes, but you’ll have to enter your passcode manually each time you want to make a purchase.
Is it possible to use a photo to trick Face ID?
Apple’s Face ID technology includes liveness detection, which makes it difficult to fool with a photo.
Will disabling Face ID also remove it from my Apple Watch?
No, you’ll need to disable Face ID separately on your Apple Watch through its settings.
Can I set up Face ID with a mask on?
As of iOS 14.5, Apple has introduced a feature to unlock your iPhone with Face ID while wearing a mask, but it requires an Apple Watch for authentication.
Conclusion
Removing Face ID on your iPhone 12 can be a straightforward process if you follow the steps provided. Whether you’re concerned about privacy or just prefer using a passcode, disabling Face ID can give you peace of mind. Just remember that you’ll lose the convenience of quickly unlocking your phone and making payments, so weigh the pros and cons before you decide to remove it.
If you ever change your mind, re-enabling Face ID is just as easy. As technology evolves, it’s important to stay informed about how these features work and how they can best serve your needs. Don’t hesitate to revisit your security settings regularly to ensure your iPhone remains as secure as you need it to be.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.