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Samsung

Samsung: Turn On Face Recognition to Unlock Your Phone

Registered your face on your Samsung phone but the lock screen still asks for a PIN or pattern? Face data alone does not turn on face unlock - the feature stays off by default even after enrollment. You need to switch it on separately before it works as an unlock method.

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Step 1 of 6: Tap on **Settings**

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Tap on Settings

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Android 11 · One UI 3
Enable Face Recognition Unlock – One UI 3: step 1 – Tap on Settings
Tap on Settings
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Samsung

Enable Face Recognition Unlock auf Samsung

Samsung phones separate two steps that many users expect to happen together: registering a face and using that face to unlock the screen. Scanning your face during setup only stores the data. It does not automatically replace your PIN, pattern or password as the unlock method.

To make face recognition unlock the device, turn the feature on manually:

Tap on SettingsTap on Lock screenTap on Screen lock type ➔ enter the current Pattern, PIN or Password ➔ Turn On FaceTap on Continue and follow the instructions on screen.

Samsung asks for your existing lock method before enabling face recognition, since a backup screen lock is always required. This backup kicks in whenever the camera cannot read your face, for example in low light or with a mask on.

Face recognition is convenient but weaker than a pattern or PIN, since a photo or a similar-looking face can sometimes trigger it. If you handle sensitive apps or payments, pair face unlock with a stronger secondary lock method rather than relying on it alone.

Frequently asked questions

Registering a face only stores the scan. You still need to switch on the feature yourself through SettingsLock screenScreen lock typeTurn On Face.

Compatible devices

Tap your device — opens its hub with matching guides.

Android 11 · One UI 3

No compatible devices are listed for this version.