How to reset Touch ID on your MacBook

The functionality of Touch ID on a MacBook is much the same as it was on earlier iPhone models with the capability. Three fingerprints can be saved and used to unlock your MacBook. Like the iPhone, your Mac can be opened using Touch ID, but after three to five unsuccessful attempts, you will need to enter your account password to enable Touch ID. 

You will need to use the password again rather than Touch ID if you haven’t logged into your Mac in a while or if the computer has been restarted.

With the exception of the aforementioned rare situations, Touch ID ought to operate without issue; but, if it keeps failing to identify a fingerprint, you should reset it.

MacBook Touch ID reset

Use the procedures below to reset the Touch ID on a MacBook.

• Switch to System Preferences.
• Access Touch ID.
• Place your mouse pointer over a saved Touch ID print.
• To close, press the button.
• Enter your account’s password.
• Repeat for each fingerprint you have saved.
• This will reset Touch ID.

You must add the fingerprints again after resetting the Touch ID for it to function.

• Select the plus icon next to the vacant Touch ID slot.
• Put your finger on the Touch ID sensor.
• Lift and reposition it.
• Give it a name once it has been added.
• Repeat for the remaining two fingerprints you want to keep.

Rebooting Touch ID is an easy fix for issues that may arise. Verify the cleanliness of the sensor. The Touch ID can accumulate dirt, just like any other keyboard key, and should be cleaned. Additionally, make sure the sensor is clean before saving a new fingerprint to Touch ID. Finally, there may be hardware damage if you are unable to get Touch ID to function and it won’t capture a fingerprint when you try to set it up. Your MacBook can try an SMC reset, but if it doesn’t work, you’ll need to take it in for a checkup. You might only need to replace the keyboard panel if the repair is too complicated.