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eleri176
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Face ID intermittently works on iPhone 15 for Facebook Messenger and Google apps

My Face ID on Facebook messenger and Google only works intermittently on my iPhone 15. I have done everything I can do to correct and always update but the problem persists

Posted on Oct 15, 2026 3:54 AM

2 replies

WheelieNick
User level: Level 9 (74,110 points)

Oct 15, 2026 4:04 AM in response to eleri176

Hi there


Please try this


  • Check App Permissions in iOS Settings:
    • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Face ID (or Settings > [App Name] like Messenger or Google).
    • Make sure the toggle for Face ID is turned on for Facebook Messenger, Google, and any affected Google-related apps. If it is already on, toggle it off and back on. 
  • Check In-App Security Settings:
    • Open Facebook Messenger, tap your profile/menu, go to Privacy & Safety > App Lock, and verify that "Unlock with Face ID" is set up and working properly.
    • For Google apps (like Google Drive, Google Photos, or Gmail), check inside each app's Settings > Privacy/Passcode/Screen Lock to see how biometrics are configured.
  • Set Up an "Alternate Appearance":
    • If Face ID fails when you are wearing glasses, in different lighting, or looking at the phone at an angle inside an app, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Set Up Alternate Appearance and scan a secondary profile. 


Carol B.
User level: Level 7 (22,975 points)

Oct 15, 2026 4:49 AM in response to eleri176

If Wheelie Nick's good advice does not resolve the issue, you can always make an appointment at your local Apple Store's Genius Bar. The helpful people there can run diagnostics and check for a hardware problem.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256376612