Touch ID is Apple's fingerprint-reading technology for password-free logins and purchases. Read on for a list of compatible devices and to see how it works.
Where is the Touch ID sensor?
The Touch ID sensor is either in the Home button or—on iPad Air (4th generation)—the top button. When you follow the steps below, the onscreen instructions will tell you which button to use.
Follow these steps. Try using Touch ID after each step:
- Make sure that you have the latest version of iOS or iPadOS.
- Make sure that your fingers and the Touch ID sensor are clean and dry.* For the Touch ID sensor, use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris.
- Your finger should cover the Touch ID sensor completely, touching the surrounding metal ring. While Touch ID is scanning, you shouldn't tap too quickly or move your finger around.
- If you're using a case or screen protector, make sure it doesn't cover the Touch ID sensor or the surrounding ring.
- Go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode and make sure that iPhone Unlock or iTunes & App Store is on, and that you've enrolled one or more fingerprints.
- Try enrolling a different finger.
- Touch ID Password Manager. Touch ID Password Manager for iPhone and iPad https://appsto.re/us/58aj3.i.
- Set up Touch ID. Before you can set up Touch ID in 1Password, you’ll need to set up Touch ID on.
- As a 1password user, the one thing I prefer about that app vs Lastpass is the duration of Touch ID for the iOS app. There should be a setting to retain Touch ID until the phone reboots. I find I'm entering my master password WAY too often on the Lastpass iOS app. I understand requiring the master.
Still not working?
If the previous steps didn't help, you see 'Failed—unable to complete Touch ID setup', or either of the following happen when you go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode, take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support:
Touch Id Password
- You can't turn on Touch ID
- Touch ID is dimmed or grayed out
If you need to enter your passcode
1password Touch Id
You might need to enter your passcode or Apple ID instead of using Touch ID in these situations:
- You just restarted your device
- Your fingerprint isn't recognized five times in a row
- You haven't unlocked your device in more than 48 hours
- You just enrolled or deleted fingerprints
- You're trying to open Touch ID & Passcode in the Settings menu
- You used Emergency SOS.
* Moisture, lotions, sweat, oils, cuts, or dry skin might affect fingerprint recognition. Certain activities can also temporarily affect fingerprint recognition, including exercising, showering, swimming, cooking, or other conditions or changes that affect your fingerprint.