Face ID is one of the most powerful security features on modern iPhones. Beyond simply unlocking your device, Face ID can be used to authenticate apps, authorize purchases, and protect sensitive data. Managing which apps can use Face ID allows you to strike the perfect balance between convenience and privacy.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to enable or disable Face ID for individual apps on iPhone, along with advanced tips, practical examples, and troubleshooting methods for optimal security.

🔹 1. How to Verify That Face ID Is Active

Before enabling Face ID for apps, it’s crucial to ensure that the feature is set up and functioning properly.

Open Settings → Face ID & Passcode.
Enter your passcode to access the menu.
Check that Face ID is enabled for:
- iPhone Unlock – so you can use your face to unlock your device.
- iTunes & App Store – for purchases.
- Apple Pay – for payments.
- Other Apps – a list of supported apps.

💡 Tip: If Face ID isn’t working as expected, you can reset Face ID and register your face again to improve recognition accuracy.

🔹 2. How to Enable or Disable Face ID for Specific Apps

Once Face ID is active, you can manage its use on a per-app basis. This allows you to enhance security for sensitive apps while keeping convenience for daily tasks.

Steps:

Open Settings → Face ID & Passcode.
Enter your device passcode.
Scroll down and select Other Apps.
You will see a list of apps that support Face ID.
Toggle the switch ON to enable Face ID for that app, or OFF to disable it.

🔹 Examples:

Banking and Finance Apps: Enable Face ID for faster access while keeping your credentials secure.
Social Media Apps: Disable Face ID if you prefer entering a password each time for extra privacy.
App Store or Apple Pay: Enable Face ID to complete purchases quickly without typing a password.

💡 Pro Tip: Only enable Face ID for apps you trust. Avoid enabling it for apps that contain highly sensitive information if multiple people have access to your phone.

🔹 3. How to Manage Face ID Recognition for Better Accuracy

Face ID generally works reliably, but certain conditions like masks, sunglasses, or changes in appearance can reduce accuracy. iOS provides tools to improve recognition.

Alternate Appearance:

Go to Settings → Face ID & Passcode.
Select Set Up an Alternate Appearance.
Follow the on-screen instructions to register a secondary look.

This helps Face ID recognize you in various conditions, ensuring consistent access to apps and services.

Troubleshooting Recognition Issues:

Clean the TrueDepth camera on the front of your iPhone to remove dust or smudges.
Ensure your face is fully visible and well-lit during registration.
Re-register your face if you have significant changes in hairstyle, glasses, or facial hair.

💡 Tip: Face ID works better when your device is held at a natural viewing angle, typically 10–20 inches from your face.

🔹 4. How to Remove Face ID Access from an App

If you no longer want an app to use Face ID, you can remove its permissions easily:

Open Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Other Apps.
Find the app in the list.
Toggle OFF to revoke Face ID access.

This ensures that even if someone’s face is recognized, they cannot access apps you’ve restricted.

🔹 5. How to Re-Enable Face ID for Apps

Re-enabling Face ID is just as simple:

Navigate to Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Other Apps.
Toggle the desired app ON.
Test the app by logging in to confirm Face ID works properly.

💡 Pro Tip: Some apps may require you to log out and log back in for Face ID settings to take effect.

🔹 6. How to Manage App Purchases with Face ID

Face ID is not just for unlocking apps—it can authorize payments in the App Store or through Apple Pay.

Open Settings → Face ID & Passcode.
Ensure iTunes & App Store and Apple Pay are toggled ON.
When making a purchase, your iPhone will prompt you to use Face ID instead of entering your password.

This feature increases convenience while keeping transactions secure.

🔹 7. Important Security Notes for Face ID

Authorized Access: Anyone registered in Face ID can access apps where it’s enabled.
Alternative Authentication: When Face ID is disabled for an app, you must use a passcode, password, or app-specific authentication.
Device Sharing: If your iPhone is shared, consider disabling Face ID for apps with sensitive data to prevent unauthorized access.
Privacy Consideration: Face ID data is stored securely in the Secure Enclave and never uploaded to Apple servers.

🔹 8. Best Practices for Face ID on iPhone

Regularly check Other Apps in Settings to review which apps have Face ID access.
Use Alternate Appearance if you wear glasses, hats, or masks often.
Keep your TrueDepth camera clean and unobstructed.
Combine Face ID with a strong passcode for the ultimate security setup.
Disable Face ID for apps containing highly sensitive information if necessary.

💡 Pro Tip: Some financial and password manager apps allow you to require Face ID every time, enhancing security beyond the default settings.

🔹 9. Troubleshooting Common Face ID App Issues

Face ID Not Prompting for Login: Ensure the app supports Face ID and toggle the switch in Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Other Apps.
Face ID Fails to Recognize You: Clean the camera, improve lighting, or register an alternate appearance.
App Requires Password After Face ID: Some apps may reset Face ID permissions after updates—re-enable it in settings.
Face ID Doesn’t Work for Purchases: Check that iTunes & App Store and Apple Pay toggles are ON, and that you’re signed into your Apple ID.

🔹 10. Summary: How to Enable or Disable Face ID for Apps on iPhone

To manage Face ID access effectively:

Verify Face ID is Active: Settings → Face ID & Passcode.
Enable or Disable for Apps: Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Other Apps.
Use Alternate Appearance: Improve recognition under varying conditions.
Remove or Re-enable Apps: Toggle switches as needed for security and convenience.
Manage Purchases: Use Face ID for App Store and Apple Pay for faster authentication.
Follow Security Best Practices: Combine Face ID with strong passcodes and privacy-minded app permissions.

By following these steps, you can fully control which apps access Face ID, enjoy faster logins, and maintain a high level of privacy and security on your iPhone.

How to Enable or Disable Face ID for Apps on iPhone (iOS)