How to Delete Alternate Face ID on iPhone

Many iPhone users set up an alternate Face ID to allow another face to unlock their device. However, there are times when you want to remove this alternate face for security or privacy reasons. Deleting an alternate Face ID can be confusing if you don’t know where to look in the settings.

Face ID is Apple's facial recognition system that lets you unlock your iPhone securely. It allows setting up a primary and an alternate face for convenience. This guide explains how to delete the alternate Face ID on your iPhone quickly and safely.

What is an alternate Face ID on iPhone?

An alternate Face ID is a secondary facial recognition profile you can add to your iPhone. It allows a second person or a different appearance of the same person to unlock the device without entering a passcode. Apple introduced this feature to improve convenience for users who want to share access or use different looks.

When you set up Face ID, you can enroll your face as the primary profile. The alternate Face ID is an additional face scanned and stored separately. The iPhone uses infrared sensors and cameras to create a detailed depth map of the face. Both profiles are stored securely in the device's Secure Enclave.

Having an alternate Face ID means two different faces can unlock your iPhone. This can be useful for couples or family members sharing a device. However, if you no longer want the alternate face to have access, you need to delete it. The alternate Face ID is not separately listed but is managed through the Face ID & Passcode settings.

How do you delete an alternate Face ID on iPhone?

You cannot delete the alternate Face ID separately on iPhone. Instead, you must reset Face ID entirely, which removes both the primary and alternate face data. After resetting, you can set up Face ID again with only your primary face.

To delete the alternate Face ID, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. 2. Tap on Face ID & Passcode. 3. Enter your passcode to access settings. 4. Tap Reset Face ID. 5. Confirm the reset. 6. Set up Face ID again with your primary face only.

This process deletes all Face ID data, including the alternate face. Unfortunately, Apple does not provide an option to remove only the alternate Face ID without resetting the entire Face ID data.

What prerequisites are required for deleting alternate Face ID on iPhone?

iPhone with Face ID support: You need an iPhone model that supports Face ID, such as iPhone X or later.
Access to device passcode: You must know the device passcode to access Face ID settings and reset Face ID.
Physical access to the iPhone: You need the device in hand to perform the reset and re-enrollment.
Clean environment for face scanning: Ensure good lighting and no obstructions like glasses or masks during Face ID setup.

Step-by-step guide to delete alternate Face ID on iPhone

Step 1: Open Settings and navigate to Face ID & Passcode

Start by unlocking your iPhone and opening the Settings app. Scroll down and tap on "Face ID & Passcode" to access facial recognition settings. You will need to enter your passcode to proceed.

Settings > Face ID & Passcode

This section controls all Face ID configurations, including resetting or setting up new faces.

Step 2: Enter your device passcode

For security, iOS requires your device passcode to access Face ID settings. Enter your passcode when prompted to continue to the next step.

Enter passcode

This step ensures only authorized users can change Face ID settings.

Step 3: Tap on Reset Face ID

Within the Face ID & Passcode settings, find and tap the "Reset Face ID" button. This option deletes all stored facial recognition data, including the alternate Face ID.

Tap Reset Face ID

Resetting Face ID removes all face data, so you will need to set it up again afterward.

Step 4: Confirm the reset

A confirmation prompt will appear asking if you want to reset Face ID. Confirm your choice to proceed. This action cannot be undone without re-enrolling faces.

Confirm Reset Face ID

After confirmation, all Face ID data is erased from your device.

Step 5: Set up Face ID again with your primary face

Once reset, you will be prompted to set up Face ID again. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your face. Avoid setting up an alternate face if you want to delete the previous alternate Face ID.

Follow on-screen Face ID setup instructions

This step restores Face ID functionality with only your primary face registered.

What are common errors when deleting alternate Face ID and how do you fix them?

Unable to access Face ID settings: This happens if you forget your device passcode. Resetting Face ID requires the passcode, so you must recover or reset your passcode first.
Face ID reset button is greyed out: This may occur due to restrictions or profiles installed on the device. Check Screen Time or device management profiles and disable restrictions.
Face ID setup fails after reset: Poor lighting or obstructions can cause setup failure. Ensure a well-lit environment and remove glasses or masks during scanning.
Face ID not working after reset: Restart your iPhone and try setting up Face ID again. If problems persist, update iOS to the latest version or contact Apple Support.

What are best practices when managing Face ID on iPhone?

Use a secure passcode: Always set a strong device passcode to protect Face ID settings and data.
Limit alternate Face ID use: Only add an alternate face if necessary, as it grants full device access.
Regularly update iOS: Keep your iPhone updated to benefit from the latest Face ID security improvements and bug fixes.
Reset Face ID if suspicious: If you suspect unauthorized access, reset Face ID immediately and set it up again.
Maintain clean sensors: Keep the TrueDepth camera area clean and unobstructed for accurate Face ID recognition.

What are alternatives to deleting alternate Face ID on iPhone?

If you want to restrict access without deleting Face ID completely, consider these alternatives:

Disable Face ID for specific features: You can turn off Face ID for unlocking iPhone, Apple Pay, or apps individually in settings.
Use Screen Time restrictions: Limit app access or device usage without removing Face ID.
Change device passcode: Updating your passcode can add an extra layer of security.
Remove trusted devices: Manage devices linked to your Apple ID to control access.

These options provide control over device security without deleting Face ID data.

Conclusion

Deleting an alternate Face ID on iPhone requires resetting Face ID entirely, as Apple does not allow removing the alternate face separately. This process removes all facial data, ensuring only your primary face can unlock the device after re-enrollment.

Developers and users should understand that Face ID data is tightly integrated and secured. Resetting Face ID is straightforward but requires device passcode access. Use this method when you want to revoke access granted by an alternate face. Always follow best practices to maintain your iPhone’s security and privacy.

FAQ

Can I delete only the alternate Face ID without resetting the primary?

No, iOS does not provide an option to delete only the alternate Face ID. You must reset Face ID entirely, which removes both primary and alternate face data.

Will resetting Face ID delete my saved passwords or data?

Resetting Face ID only deletes facial recognition data. Your saved passwords, apps, and other data remain unaffected.

Do I need my passcode to reset Face ID?

Yes, you must enter your device passcode to access Face ID settings and perform a reset for security reasons.

Can I add a new alternate Face ID after resetting?

Yes, after resetting Face ID, you can set up your primary face and optionally add an alternate face again if desired.

What should I do if Face ID setup fails after reset?

Ensure good lighting, remove any face obstructions, restart your iPhone, and update iOS. If issues persist, contact Apple Support for assistance.