What to do if facial recognition isn’t working on your Galaxy phone

Last Update date : Aug 07. 2025

The Face recognition feature provides a quick and convenient way to unlock your Galaxy phone. However, the feature may not work properly if the camera is smudged or covered or the lighting is poor. Follow the steps below to troubleshoot the issue.

Common causes of recognition failure

Face recognition may not work as expected in the following cases:

  • Low lighting: In dim or backlit conditions, the camera may not capture enough detail to recognize your face.
  • Face partially covered: Wearing a mask, sunglasses, a hat, or thick-framed glasses can interfere with recognition.
  • Significant changes in appearance: Wearing heavy makeup, shaving a full beard.
  • Camera lens issues: Dust, smudges, screen protectors, or a damaged lens may prevent the camera from capturing a clear image.

How to improve recognition accuracy

If you are having some difficulty using Face recognition, you can follow the tips below.

  • Clean the front camera lens using a soft, lint-free cloth.
  • Remove any accessories covering your face, such as a mask or sunglasses.
  • Use the feature in a well-lit environment and avoid strong backlight.
  • Check your screen protector or case to ensure it doesn’t block the camera.

Re-register your face

If Face recognition continues to fail, you can try the face registration again.

Selecting the Security and privacy menu Selecting the Security and privacy menu

Step 1. Select Settings, then select Security and privacy.

Selecting the Screen lock and biometrics menu Selecting the Screen lock and biometrics menu

Step 2. Select Screen lock and biometrics.

Selecting the Face recognition menu Selecting the Face recognition menu

Step 3. Select Face recognition.

Selecting the Remove face data menu Selecting the Remove face data menu

Step 4. Select Remove face data.

Tapping the Remove button Tapping the Remove button

Step 5. Tap Remove.

Selecting the Register face menu Selecting the Register face menu

Step 6. Select Register face.

Tapping the Continue button Tapping the Continue button

Step 7. Tap the Continue button.

Tapping the Register button Tapping the Register button

Step 8. Tap the Register button and capture your face to complete facial recognition.

Face registration tip

  • Look directly at the camera, then tilt your head up.
  • To get a full scan of your face, first you’ll need to look directly at the camera.
  • After that, you’ll be asked to turn your head up slightly.

Note: To improve accuracy, hold the phone steady, face forward, and capture your face from various angles.

Run diagnostics using Samsung Members app

Open the Samsung Members app and use the Phone diagnostics tool to check for Face recognition issues.

Note:

  • If you often wear glasses, makeup, or hats, registering an alternative appearance could help improve recognition accuracy in various situations.
  • It may also help to hold the device steadily and ensure that your face is clearly visible and centered on the screen during the unlocking process.
  • Keep in mind that Face recognition is generally considered less secure than other authentication methods such as PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
  • If you have a twin or someone who closely resembles you, it's possible that the device might recognize them as well. This is worth considering when choosing your primary unlock method.
  • Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.

Thank you for your feedback!

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