How to Use Face ID to Make Purchases on iPhone

Most people use Face ID as a quick way to unlock their iPhones and login to accounts. However, the feature can also be used to make purchases whether they're made in-store, online, or within an app. Let's dive deep into how to make purchases using Face ID.

Related: How Secure Is Apple Pay, How to Set It Up & Where to Use It 

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How to Use Face ID for Apple Pay In-Store Purchases

Before using this option, you'll need to set up Apple Pay. When you have the chance, feel free to read our article on finding out if FaceTime uses data.

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  1. Double click the Side button to open Apple Pay.
  2. Authenticate the purchase with Face ID.
  3. Hold the phone up to the contactless reader.
  4. Wait for the word Done and a checkmark to appear on your iPhone's screen.

How to Enable Face ID for Apple Pay Online Purchases

  1. Select Apple Pay as your payment method.
  2. Confirm your payment information.
  3. Double click the Side button.
  4. Glance at your phone to authenticate with Face ID.
  5. Wait for the word Done and a checkmark to appear on the screen. 

How to Use Facial Recognition for In-App Purchases

These steps can be used when you're buying an app from the App Store, music from iTunes, or an e-book. We'll use the App Store to show you how to use Face ID for In-App purchases. Also, check out our article on how to record and send an animated Memoji.

  1. There will be an on-screen prompt to Double Click to Install or Pay. Double click the Side button.

  2. Authenticate purchase with Face ID.

  3. Wait for the word Done and a checkmark to appear on the screen.


     

Pro tip: If you have an older iPhone or iPad, you'll need to enable Touch ID instead.

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Author Details

Kenya Smith's picture

Author Details

Kenya Smith

Kenya Smith is a Feature Web Writer for iPhone Life. She has a bachelor's degree in Strategic Communication and has written articles for two newspapers in her home state of Virginia. She also won first place in non-daily column writing for the 2019 and 2020 Virginia Press Association Awards.