How to Add Another Face ID to iPhone

The iPhone allows you to add a second Face ID, so a partner, friend, or child can access to your device with ease.

By Leanne Hays Updated 03/02/2023

* This post is part of iPhone Life's Tip of the Day newsletter. . *

Face ID has become the default for Apple's smartphone security since it debuted with the iPhone X. However, if you'd like to share your iPhone with a partner, friend, or child, unlocking might be a little difficult. Luckily, there is a way to add a second Face ID, so you can share your iPhone easily.

Why You'll Love This Tip

  • Allow other family members or friends to unlock your device in case of emergency.
  • If someone is sharing an iPhone, adding two appearances to Face ID ensures both users can get into the phone.

How to Add a Second Face ID to iPhone

Before we get started, it is important to note that the Alternate Appearance option is a feature that is intended to allow one to still use Face ID and Apple Pay even while wearing glasses, sunglasses, facemasks, hats, etc. However, it is possible to use this feature to add the face of a partner, friend, or child so that they can unlock your phone. For more iPhone security advice, be sure to sign up for our Tip of the Day newsletter. Now here's how to set up Face ID to add an alternate appearance:
  1. Open the Settings app.

    Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Face ID & Passcode. You will be prompted to enter your passcode to continue.

    Tap Face ID & Passcode.
  3. Tap Set Up an Alternate Appearance.

    Tap Set Up an Alternate Appearance.
  4. Tap Get Started and follow the on-screen prompt to add a second face to Face ID.

    Tap Get Started and follow the on-screen prompt to add a second face to Face ID.
  5. If you don't see the Set Up an Alternate Appearance button, you may already have an alternate appearance saved. The only way to remove an alternate appearance and add a new one is to tap Reset Face ID. When resetting Face ID, you will need to set up your own face again before setting up the alternate appearance.

    If you don't see the Set Up an Alternate Appearance button, you may already have an alternate appearance saved, so you will need to Reset Face ID.

Once you have added another person's face to your Face ID alternate appearances, they should have no problem using Face ID to unlock your device. This can be incredibly useful in the event of an emergency in which you are unable to unlock your phone yourself. Be aware that if you have locked any apps with Face ID, any other faces that you have saved to your alternate appearances will also be able to unlock them. Alternate faces will also be able to make purchases with Face ID.

Master your iPhone in one minute a day: Sign up here to get our FREE Tip of the Day delivered right to your inbox.

Topics

How-To
iPhone
Face ID & Touch ID
Privacy & Security

Author Details

Leanne Hays's picture

Author Details

Leanne Hays

Leanne Hays has over a dozen years of experience writing for online publications. As a Feature Writer for iPhone Life, she has authored hundreds of how-to, Apple news, and gear review articles, as well as a comprehensive Photos App guide. Leanne holds degrees in education and science and loves troubleshooting and repair. This combination makes her a perfect fit as manager of our Ask an Expert service, which helps iPhone Life Insiders with Apple hardware and software issues.
In off-work hours, Leanne is a mother of two, homesteader, audiobook fanatic, musician, and learning enthusiast.