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TrueDepth camera not working: Quick Fix

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  • 3 min read

Apple is known for creating some of the most premium smartphones ever made. The company consistently makes good quality phones with well-integrated software experiences and new features. However, just like everything tech, these features can run into issues from time to time. 

In this article, we’re talking about the Truedepth camera not working, the reasons behind it and what you can do to fix the problem.

Also read: How to fix ‘iPhone storage not loading’ issue?


Why is your TrueDepth camera not working?

There are a number of reasons why your iPhone’s Truedepth camera might not work as expected. Common causes include:

  • Outdated iOS version. 
  • Corrupt FaceID settings. 
  • Bugs in Face ID. 

How to fix Truedepth camera issues?

Here are six fixes you can try out. 

Restart your iPhone 

One of the first things you should do is try and restart your iPhone to see if that resolves the issue. Restarting your device can solve many seemingly random issues that would be tricky to debug.

Alternatively, it’s also recommended that you try force restarting your iPhone. To do so, press and quickly release the volume up button and then do the same with the volume down button. After that, press and hold the side button until an Apple logo appears on the screen. Keep in mind that you don’t have to let go of the side button when the power off slider appears on the screen. 


Check the camera for obstructions

Another rather important thing to keep in mind is whether or not the camera is being obstructed or not. As you’d expect, the Truedepth camera won’t function as expected if it’s obstructed or covered by something. Additionally, sometimes dust, grime and smudges from your fingers can also act as hindrances, so make sure the notch on your iPhone is clean and unobstructed before trying again. 


Reset Face ID

Resetting FaceID can get rid of any corrupt data that might be hampering the functionality of your Truedepth camera. Here’s how. 

  • Head over to settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
  • Tap Reset Face ID.

Once the reset is complete, you’ll have to set up Face ID again but it should get the camera working. 


Update your iPhone

If you’re experiencing issues, chances are Apple has already released a patch to address the problem. 

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  • Head over to the settings and tap on General.
  • Tap on Software Update.
  • Ensure that you’re on the latest update available. If not, update your device immediately.

Once updated, test your Truedepth camera again and the error should be fixed. 


Reset your iPhone

Lastly, if nothing else works, you can try resetting your iPhone to check if that resolves the issue. 

Every year since the release of the first iPhone in 2008, Apple releases a new iteration of the device with the latest ones being iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max. If you're planning to switch to a newer version of the iPhone and are planning to sell or trade your old iPhone, it makes sense to wipe off all the data and restore the device to the factory settings. This not only ensures that none of your data gets in the hands of someone else but also gives the device a fresher look if you're planning on selling.  Before you go ahead and factory reset your iPhone, you should back up its data via iTunes or iCloud, so that you're able to restore it to the new device.  In this article, we've put together a simple guide to help you factory reset your iPhone in three simple steps.  Also read: How to use your iPad in Split Screen mode?  How to factory reset an iPhone?  Go to your iPhone's Settings. Scroll down and tap on General. On the next page, scroll down to the bottom and tap on Reset. On the next page, tap on the second option from the top Erase All Content and Settings.  Once the factory reset of the iPhone is complete, it will restart from the Hello screen.  Note that if you don't want to erase your data and just wish to reset the factory settings of the device, you can do so by tapping on Reset All Settings, which is located right above the Erase All Content and Settings option. In addition to the aforementioned, users can also individually reset their Network settings, keyboard dictionary, home screen layout and location & privacy settings by tapping on the other options on the same screen.  Also read: How to switch off WiFi and Bluetooth in the iPhone?
  • Head over to the settings and tap on General.
  • On the next page, scroll down to the bottom and tap on Reset.
  • On the next page, tap on the second option from the top Reset All Settings.

Also read: iPhone dictation not working: Quick Fix

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah Abidi

Yadullah is a Computer Science graduate who writes/edits/shoots/codes all things cybersecurity, gaming, and tech hardware. When he's not, he streams himself racing virtual cars. He's been writing and reporting on tech and cybersecurity with websites like Candid.Technology and MakeUseOf since 2018. You can contact him here: yadullahabidi@pm.me.

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