What iPad Has Face ID: A Comprehensive Guide

What Face ID Means on iPad

Face ID is a biometric authentication system that uses a TrueDepth camera to map your face in 3D. On iPads, it provides fast unlocking, secure authentication for Apple Pay, and quick access to apps and passwords. When you ask, the question 'what ipad has face id?' is best answered by noting that Face ID is currently available only on the iPad Pro lineup (11-inch and 12.9-inch) since the 2018 redesign. The Tablet Info team notes that this creates a clear split in the iPad family: Pro models support a modern, face-based login, while other iPads rely on Touch ID or passcodes. Throughout this guide we’ll unpack which models support Face ID, how it works in practice, setup steps, and practical tips for maximizing security and convenience.

Which iPads Support Face ID

As of 2026, Face ID is built into the iPad Pro family—the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models released from 2018 onward, including recent generations powered by Apple’s M-series chips. These devices use the TrueDepth camera array on the front of the tablet, enabling facial recognition even in varied lighting conditions. Other iPads in the lineup, such as the iPad Air, iPad mini, and the standard iPad, rely on Touch ID or a passcode for authentication. This distinction matters for security workflows, app authentication, and features that require biometric approval. Tablet Info’s analysis shows the Pro line is the sole iPad family with Face ID while non-Pro devices maintain legacy biometric options.

How Face ID Works on the iPad Pro

Face ID on iPad Pro uses a TrueDepth camera system that projects infrared light and captures a detailed depth map of your face. The data is processed locally to create a secure mathematical representation, stored only in the device's Secure Enclave, never leaving the handset. This design reduces the risk of replication through photos or videos. Unlike older fingerprint sensors, Face ID supports multiple angles and can recognize you even if you’re wearing sunglasses or a hat, though certain obstructions may prompt a password fallback. For iPad owners, the experience feels seamless: two taps unlock, authenticate in apps, sign into websites, and approve purchases without typing a password. Tablet Info’s research emphasizes that the privacy model for Face ID remains privacy-preserving and device-bound.

Setting Up Face ID on a Compatible iPad Pro

To enable Face ID on a supported iPad, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode. Follow the on-screen prompts to capture a full 3D map of your face; you’ll be asked to move your head slowly to scan from different angles. For best results, keep the front camera area free of obstructions and ensure the iPad is at a comfortable height. You can set up one or more trusted faces and enable Face ID for unlocking, iTunes & App Store, Apple Pay, and password autofill in Safari and apps. If you wear a mask or sunglasses, you may still be prompted for a passcode in some situations. Tablet Info recommends testing Face ID in everyday tasks like unlocking the device, authorizing purchases, and signing into apps to gauge speed and reliability.

Limitations and Considerations

Face ID on iPad Pro is a strong option, but it isn’t foolproof. Lighting, camera obstruction, or wearing a full-face mask may degrade reliability and require fallback to a password. Face ID also depends on a compatible iPad Pro front camera assembly; older device repairs or non-Pro models won’t unlock with Face ID. In enterprise contexts, administrators should note that biometric data stays on-device and is not shared with servers, aligning with Apple’s privacy stance. For most users, Face ID improves daily workflows by speeding up login, app authentication, and Apple Pay. However, if you frequently use bulk hands-on scenarios (e.g., while wearing gloves in labs or fieldwork), you may favor Touch ID or a traditional PIN for reliability.

Alternatives for Non-Pro iPads

If you own an iPad Air, iPad mini, or the standard iPad, Face ID isn’t available. Instead you’ll rely on Touch ID (on the Home button or top button depending on model) or a passcode for authentication. Touch ID remains a robust, fast option that works in most lighting conditions and supports secure Apple Pay and app sign-in. Some users pair Touch ID with a long, complex passcode for layered security. If you’re migrating from Touch ID to Face ID on a future device, consider how your current workflows will adapt and what apps you use that require biometric approvals.

Model-by-Model Timeline and Generations

From the 2018 iPad Pro refresh through the latest generations, Apple has kept Face ID as the biometric option for the Pro line. In practice, the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models share the same Face ID hardware family, with incremental software updates improving reliability and speed. The timeline highlights major milestones: initial 2018 release, mid-cycle hardware refinements, and continued support into 2026 with iPadOS enhancements. This progression helps explain why many users still identify “what ipad has face id” with only the Pro models, while other iPads stay with Touch ID.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most from Face ID on iPad Pro

• Keep iPad software up to date; Apple’s updates often improve responsiveness and accuracy.
• Make sure the camera area is clean and unobstructed; dust or screen protectors can interfere with depth sensing.
• Use Face ID for multi-device workflows: unlocking, password autofill, Apple Pay, and app purchases.
• Consider enabling an alternate appearance if you share your iPad with a family member or colleague, while keeping security best practices.
• If you wear a mask often, set a strong passcode as a fallback and train Face ID to recognize you with and without a mask where supported.