Set Up Touch ID or Face ID on Your iPad

Questions

  • How do I set up Touch ID on my Bowdoin iPad?
  • How do I set up Face ID on my iPad?
  • How do I add my fingerprint to my iPad?
  • I skipped biometric setup during first-time setup — how do I add it now?
  • How do I add a second fingerprint to my iPad?
  • My Touch ID isn't recognizing my fingerprint — what should I do?
  • How do I use Touch ID to approve App Store purchases?
  • Can I temporarily turn off Face ID on my iPad?

Environment

This article applies to all Bowdoin College students and faculty using a college-issued iPad. The biometric method depends on which kit you have:

  • Current kit (iPad mini): Uses Touch ID — fingerprint sensor built into the top/power button
  • iPad Pro: Uses Face ID — facial recognition

Both methods require a passcode to be set on the iPad before biometrics can be configured.

Resolution

Set up Touch ID (iPad mini — current kit)

  1. Open Settings and tap Touch ID & Passcode.
  2. Enter your iPad passcode when prompted.
  3. Tap Add a Fingerprint.
  4. Rest your finger lightly on the top button (do not press — just rest it). The iPad will scan your fingerprint in segments, prompting you to lift and reposition your finger several times.
  5. When asked to Adjust Your Grip, reposition your finger slightly to capture the edges of your fingerprint, then continue.
  6. Tap Continue when setup is complete.
  7. Under Use Touch ID For, enable any options you want — such as iPad Unlock, iTunes & App Store, and Password AutoFill.
Tip: You can add up to five fingerprints. Consider adding both your dominant and non-dominant index fingers so Touch ID works in more situations. Go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Add a Fingerprint to add more.

Set up Face ID (iPad Pro)

  1. Open Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
  2. Enter your iPad passcode when prompted.
  3. Tap Set Up Face ID, then tap Get Started.
  4. Hold your iPad in portrait orientation and position your face in the on-screen circle.
  5. Gently move your head in a slow circle to let the camera capture all angles of your face. Complete the circle twice.
  6. Tap Done when setup is complete.
  7. Under Use Face ID For, enable the options you want.
Need to set up an alternate appearance? Face ID can recognize one additional appearance (useful if you look significantly different with glasses, a beard, or other changes). Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Set Up an Alternate Appearance.

Temporarily disable biometric unlock

If you need to temporarily prevent Touch ID or Face ID from unlocking your iPad — for example, if someone else might handle your device — press and hold the Top button and either Volume button for two seconds, then release. Your iPad will require your passcode for the next unlock. Biometric unlock re-enables automatically the next time you enter your passcode.

Troubleshooting Touch ID

If Touch ID is not recognizing your fingerprint consistently:

  • Make sure your finger and the top button sensor are clean and dry — moisture, lotion, or cuts can reduce recognition accuracy.
  • Cover the sensor fully when scanning, including touching the small metal ring that surrounds it.
  • Add a second scan of the same finger under Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Add a Fingerprint — a second scan of the same finger can improve recognition.
  • If Touch ID is dimmed or setup fails repeatedly, the sensor may need service. Contact the Service Desk.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.

Additional Resources

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