Apple Confirms iPhone 18 Pro Face ID Reboot Bug Fix
Apple has confirmed that a software update is being prepared for an iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max problem that can cause the device to freeze and restart after a failed Face ID authentication.
The problem is associated with iOS 27 and has been reported when Face ID is used to authenticate access to protected apps or content.
What Happens With the Bug?
Affected iPhone 18 Pro models can experience a specific sequence after Face ID fails:
- Face ID does not authenticate successfully.
- The iPhone becomes unresponsive.
- Touch input may stop working.
- The device can restart automatically.
This is different from a normal Face ID failure where the phone simply asks for the passcode.
Apple Is Preparing a Software Fix
Apple has confirmed that a software update is being developed to address the problem.
This means users experiencing the specific freeze-and-reboot behavior should first look for an iOS update rather than assuming the iPhone has suffered physical hardware damage.
Open:
Settings > General > Software Update
If an update containing the fix is available, install it.
What Should Affected Users Do Now?
Until the software fix becomes available, avoid repeatedly attempting Face ID when the same failure is triggering the freeze.
When an affected app provides a passcode option, use the passcode instead.
This is a workaround rather than a permanent repair.
What If the iPhone Freezes?
If the device becomes completely unresponsive, perform a force restart.
For an iPhone with Face ID:
- Press and quickly release Volume Up.
- Press and quickly release Volume Down.
- Press and hold the Side button.
- Continue holding it until the Apple logo appears.
The iPhone should then restart.
How to Check Whether Your iPhone Has the Latest iOS
Open:
Settings > General > Software Update
The screen will show the installed iOS version and whether a newer update is available.
If no update appears, check again later rather than repeatedly resetting the phone.
Is This a Hardware Problem?
The specific Face ID freeze-and-reboot behavior should not automatically be treated as a hardware failure.
Apple's confirmation that a software update is being prepared indicates that the reported problem is being addressed at the software level.
However, an iPhone that continues to reboot for unrelated reasons, shows persistent Face ID hardware errors, or continues experiencing the problem after the relevant update should be checked by Apple or an authorized service provider.
What If Face ID Is Failing Normally?
A normal Face ID failure is not necessarily the same problem.
If Face ID simply fails to recognize you but the iPhone remains responsive, try:
- Cleaning the Face ID sensor area.
- Removing anything obstructing the sensors.
- Checking Face ID settings.
- Restarting the iPhone.
- Installing the latest available iOS update.
If Face ID reports that it is unavailable, further troubleshooting may be required.
Bottom Line
Apple has confirmed a software fix for the reported iPhone 18 Pro Face ID freeze-and-reboot problem.
Until the update is available, use the passcode when possible if Face ID failures repeatedly trigger the problem. Check Settings > General > Software Update and install the relevant iOS update as soon as it becomes available.
Originally published on Qevra
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