If your iPhone 13 isn't recognizing your fingerprint, it's a confusing problem since the phone doesn't have a fingerprint sensor. You're likely trying to use Touch ID, which the iPhone 13 doesn't have. This model relies entirely on Face ID for biometric unlocking.
What you might be experiencing is Face ID failing to read your face, which can feel similar to a fingerprint not working. The fixes are different, but I'd start with the most common solution first.
Clean the TrueDepth Camera
The small black notch at the top of your screen houses the Face ID sensors. Any dirt, smudges, or a poorly aligned screen protector covering it will stop Face ID from working. Take a soft, lint-free cloth and gently wipe the entire area clean.
Make sure no case or thick screen protector is obstructing the sensors. This simple step fixes the issue more often than you'd think.
Perform a Force Restart
A quick force restart can clear out temporary software glitches that affect Face ID. On the iPhone 13, you press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
Finally, press and hold the Side button. Keep holding it until you see the Apple logo appear, then you can let go. This doesn't erase any data, it just gives the system a fresh start.
Re-Setup Face ID
Sometimes the stored facial data gets corrupted. You'll need to delete your existing Face ID and set it up again. Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode and enter your passcode.
Tap Reset Face ID. After it's removed, tap Set Up Face ID and follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure you're in a well-lit area and hold the phone at a natural distance from your face.
Check for Pending iOS Updates
Apple frequently releases iOS updates that include bug fixes for system features like Face ID. Open Settings > General > Software Update.
If an update is available, tap Download and Install. It's a good idea to plug your phone into power using a reliable Lightning cable and a 20W adapter during the update process.
Ensure Nothing Is Blocking Your Face
Face ID needs a clear view of your eyes, nose, and mouth. It can struggle with certain face masks, heavy scarves, or some types of sunglasses that block infrared light.
If you're wearing anything that covers these features, try removing it temporarily. Also, make sure you're not holding the phone too close or at an extreme angle.
Add an Alternate Appearance
If your look has changed slightly, maybe you've grown a beard, started wearing new glasses, or put on a hat, you can teach Face ID to recognize this new appearance. Go back to Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
Tap Set Up an Alternate Appearance and go through the enrollment process again with your new look. This gives the system a second reference point to work from.
Reset All Settings
This is a more involved step, but it can resolve deeper configuration conflicts without deleting your personal data. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Reset and then choose Reset All Settings. You'll need to enter your passcode. This will revert all your preferences (like Wi-Fi passwords and wallpaper) back to default, but your photos and apps will remain.
Check for Physical Damage
The iPhone 13's TrueDepth camera system is delicate. If your phone has been dropped recently, even a small internal misalignment can disable Face ID. Carefully inspect the notch for any cracks or damage.
Shine a light on it from different angles. If you see physical damage, that's likely the cause. The front camera and sensors are linked, so if your regular selfie camera also has issues, it points to a hardware problem.
Review App-Specific Face ID Permissions
Face ID might be working to unlock your phone but failing within a specific app, like your bank app. Open Settings and scroll down to the app in question.
Tap on the app's name and look for a Face ID permission toggle. Make sure it's enabled. Some apps manage their biometric login separately from the system settings.
Consider Environmental Factors
Very bright light coming from behind you, or complete darkness, can sometimes confuse the infrared sensors. Try moving to a different spot with more even, front-facing light.
Also, if you've just woken up or your face is in a very different position than usual (like lying flat in bed), Face ID can fail. It's designed to work at an arm's length with your face oriented toward the screen.
