To add an alternate appearance Face ID on your iPhone 11, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Set Up an Alternate Appearance and follow the onscreen instructions. This lets a second person, such as a family member or trusted friend, unlock your device without needing your passcode.
How to add an alternate appearance Face ID on iPhone 11
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone 11.
- Tap Face ID & Passcode and enter your device passcode.
- Tap Set Up an Alternate Appearance.
- Position your face within the on-screen frame, ensuring good lighting and a clear view of your entire face.
- Gently move your head in a circular motion so the TrueDepth camera captures your features from different angles.
- When the first scan completes, tap Continue to perform the second scan.
- After the setup finishes, the alternate appearance is ready to use.
What to do if Set Up an Alternate Appearance is missing
If Set Up an Alternate Appearance does not appear in Settings > Face ID & Passcode, an alternate appearance is already set up on your iPhone 11. To clear it and start fresh, tap Reset Face ID in the same menu. After resetting, you can set up Face ID again, and the Set Up an Alternate Appearance option will become available.
How Face ID with an alternate appearance works
Apple supports one primary face and one alternate appearance on iPhone 11. This is not a "second Face ID" feature, it is a single additional appearance. Both the primary face and the alternate appearance can unlock the device, authenticate purchases, and access secure apps.
Troubleshooting Face ID setup issues
- Proper face alignment: Hold your iPhone 11 at eye level and keep your face fully visible within the TrueDepth camera frame.
- Remove camera obstructions: Clean the front camera area and remove any screen protector, dirt, or debris that might block the sensors.
- Check for iOS updates: Go to Settings > General > Software Update to install any available updates, which may resolve Face ID problems.
- Reset Face ID: If Face ID consistently fails, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode, tap Reset Face ID, then set it up again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can iPhone 11 add two Face IDs?
No. Apple documents only one additional appearance, not two separate Face ID profiles. You can have one primary face and one alternate appearance.
Where is the setting to add a second face?
What if the option to add an alternate appearance is not visible?
An alternate appearance may already be set up. Use Reset Face ID under Settings > Face ID & Passcode to clear it, then set up Face ID again.
What happens if the same face is registered for two different Face IDs?
If the same face is registered for two different Face IDs, the device will recognize it as the same person, and both Face IDs will unlock the device.
Does Face ID work with privacy screens and screen locking methods?
Face ID works normally with most privacy screens and screen locking methods, as long as the TrueDepth camera area is not obstructed. If you use a privacy screen, ensure it does not cover the front sensors.
Can I use Face ID for purchases after adding an alternate appearance?
Yes. Both the primary face and the alternate appearance can authorize purchases and app downloads using Face ID.
