How to Fix Touch ID not Working on iPhone 8/SE

Touch ID is a convenient and secure feature on iPhones, including the iPhone 8 and SE. It allows you to unlock your device and make secure payments with just a fingerprint. However, sometimes, users encounter issues where Touch ID stops working.

In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Touch ID problems and provide solutions to get it working again on your iPhone 8 or SE.

Part 1. Why is my Touch ID not working?

Before we delve into the solutions, let's understand some common reasons why your Touch ID might be acting up:
⛔ Dirty or Wet Fingerprint Sensor: One of the most common causes of Touch ID issues is a dirty or wet fingerprint sensor. If there's dirt, moisture, or residue on the sensor, it can lead to inaccurate readings.
⛔ Software Updates: Sometimes, iOS updates can cause compatibility issues with Touch ID. A bug or glitch in the software might be preventing it from functioning correctly.
⛔ Hardware Damage: Physical damage to the home button or the fingerprint sensor can result in Touch ID problems. This can happen due to a drop or impact.
⛔ Sweaty or Wet Fingers: If your fingers are sweaty, wet, or have lotion on them, Touch ID might struggle to recognize your fingerprint accurately.
⛔ Third-Party Screen Repairs: If your iPhone has undergone third-party screen repairs that involve disconnecting the Touch ID cable, it can cause Touch ID to stop working.

Part 2. How to fix Touch ID not working on iPhone

Now, let’s explore the solutions to resolve Touch ID not working on iPhone. Try them one after another until your issue gets fixed.

1# Clean the Touch ID sensor

If you’re experiencing issues with your iPhone’s fingerprint sensor, it’s essential to start with the basics ans ensure that the sensor is clean and dry. Here are the steps to check and clean the fingerprint sensor.

💡 Gently wipe the home button: Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe the home button and the surrounding area.
💡 Clean your fingers: Make sure your fingers are dry and clean before attempting to use Touch ID.
💡 Remove any case or screen protector: Sometimes, protective cases or screen protectors can interfere with Touch ID. Remove them to see if it makes a difference.

2# Turn off & on the Touch ID feature

Besides cleaning the Touch ID sensor and your finger, you can turn off the Touch ID feature and on again to refresh it. You can follow the steps below to refresh it to troubleshoot Touch ID not working issue.

Go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Enter your passcode > Locate and turn off iTunes & App Store.

Wait for minutes, and you can follow the same steps above to turn the iTunes & App Store back on.

3# Remove and re-add fingerprints

If cleaning the sensor and refreshing Touch ID don't resolve the issue, you may need to re-register your fingerprints in the Touch ID settings. This can help the sensor recognize your fingerprints more accurately.

Step 1. Go to iPhone Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Enter the passcode of your iPhone.

Step 2. Scroll down to find FINGERPRINTS > Locate the fingerprint you want to delete, swipe left and tap Delete to remove it from your iPhone.

Step 3. Repeat this until all your fingerprints are deleted > Tap Add a Fingerprint and follow the on-screen instructions to set up a new fingerprint and check whether your issue gets fixed.

4# Force restart your iPhone

If the Touch ID is still not working, you need to try to force restart your iPhone. It helps refresh all iPhone services and fix common software glitches, which may help out your issue.

• For iPhone 8 series: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button > Quickly press and release the Volume Down button > Press and hold the Side/Power button until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold the Top button and Volume Down button together > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 6, SE and earlier: Hold down the Home button and the Top (or Side) button at the same time > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

5# Unlock iPhone without pressing Home button

If you find the "Press home button to unlock" feature on your iPhone inconvenient and prefer a more seamless unlocking experience, you can utilize the "Rest Finger to Open" and "Raise to Wake" options. These features allow you to unlock your iPhone with Touch ID (fingerprint recognition) without having to press the home button. Here's how to enable and use them:

>> To enable Rest Finger to Open: Go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Home Button > Toggle on the switch next to Rest Finger to Open.

>> To enable Raise to Wake: Settings > Display & brightness > Toggle on the switch next to Raise to Wake.

6# Check for hardware damage

If none of the above solutions work, it's possible that there's hardware damage affecting your Touch ID. In this case, you may need to contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service center to assess and repair the hardware.

Conclusion

That’s all for how to fix Touch ID not working on iPhone. A non-functional Touch ID can be frustrating, but in most cases, it can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting.

However, if it's a hardware issue, professional assistance may be required. By following these steps, you can often restore the convenience and security of Touch ID on your iPhone.