Published September 24, 2026 · Updated status: Fix announced, public update pending
iOS 27.0.1 Coming Soon: Apple Confirms iPhone 18 Pro Face ID Restart Fix
Apple has confirmed a software fix for an iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max bug that can freeze and restart the phone after a failed Face ID attempt. The fix is expected early in the week of September 28, 2026.
iOS 27.0.1 is the likely update, but Apple has not confirmed its final version number or exact release date. Back up your iPhone, use your passcode if an app repeatedly triggers the issue, and check Settings > General > Software Update when the public fix arrives.
There is no need to replace a phone solely because it exhibits this specific software bug. Other restart symptoms may require a separate diagnosis.
Some owners of Apple's newest Pro iPhones have experienced an alarming sequence: Face ID fails while authenticating an app, touch input stops working, and the phone restarts. According to 9to5Mac, which reproduced the issue and received Apple's confirmation, a software correction is on the way. The publication has also spotted iOS 27.0.1 in its web analytics.
When Will iOS 27.0.1 Be Released?
Apple told 9to5Mac that a fix for the iPhone 18 Pro Face ID crash should arrive early next week. As of September 24, that points to the week beginning September 28. Apple has not provided a specific day or time.
iOS 27.0.1 is a strong candidate because the build has appeared in web-traffic reports. However, a build observed in testing is not a public release, and Apple has not officially identified which version will contain the fix. Do not treat a rumored build number or download link as the final update.
What Happens When iPhone 18 Pro Face ID Fails?
Reports focus on Face ID verification inside a protected app, rather than ordinary unlocking from the Lock Screen. The Passwords app and private tabs in Safari are among the reported scenarios.
- You open content protected by Face ID.
- The first authentication attempt fails, and you try again.
- The iPhone may stop responding to touch and automatically reboot seconds later.
9to5Mac reproduced the sequence on an iPhone 18 Pro. It does not affect every device, and the number of affected units is unknown. Although the Pro models use a redesigned Face ID system with a smaller Dynamic Island, Apple has not publicly identified the sensor hardware as the root cause.
Not every random restart is this bug. If your iPhone crashes during setup, charging or normal app use, consult our iPhone 18 Pro panic-full and random restart troubleshooting guide for a separate diagnostic checklist.
Which iPhones Are Affected—and What About iPhone Ultra?
This confirmed Face ID-related incident concerns the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. It should not be presented as a confirmed issue with every iOS 27-compatible iPhone.
If you searched for iPhone Ultra, that was an earlier name used for Apple's foldable, officially called iPhone Duo. The Duo uses side-button Touch ID rather than Face ID, so this particular Face ID failure should not be attributed to it. See our iPhone Duo Touch ID vs. iPhone 18 Pro Max Face ID explanation.
Should You Replace Your iPhone 18 Pro or Wait?
If your new Pro or Pro Max only restarts in the reported failed-Face-ID scenario, a confirmed software fix gives you a reason to wait for the public update rather than immediately assume the hardware is defective. Back up important data and use your passcode for affected app authentication in the meantime.
- The phone restarts at unrelated times, repeatedly enters a boot loop or cannot finish setup.
- It becomes unusable, or there are additional camera, biometric or power problems.
- Restarting continues after the confirmed fix is installed.
Apple can review diagnostics and determine whether service is needed. Avoid intentionally reproducing the crash over and over: that adds little useful information and risks interrupting payments, work or data transfers.
How to Prepare for the Face ID Fix
- Make a backup. Use iCloud Backup or an encrypted computer backup before installing a system update.
- Confirm the version. When Apple releases the fix, open Settings > General > Software Update and read the displayed version and release notes.
- Install the public update. Use reliable Wi-Fi and keep the phone sufficiently charged.
- Check normal app use afterward. Open the apps that previously failed, without deliberately trying to force a crash. If problems persist, record the time and contact Apple Support.
If the update does not appear or gets stuck on “Update Requested,” see our iOS 27 download and installation troubleshooting guide.
iOS 27.0.1 vs. iOS 27.2 Beta: Which Update Should You Use?
iOS 27.2 Beta 2 is a developer test build, not the confirmed public remedy for this bug. Do not install a beta on your primary iPhone solely in the hope of curing Face ID crashes. Its fixes, battery life and app behavior may still change.
For most affected owners, the practical route is to wait for the official maintenance update and read Apple's published fixes. Our iOS 27.2 Beta 2 guide covers the beta separately; the broader iOS 27 upgrade guide covers features, battery life and compatibility.
Bottom Line
Apple has confirmed a software fix for the failed-Face-ID reboot problem on some iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max devices, with release expected early next week. iOS 27.0.1 appears likely, but the version and exact timing are not official yet. Back up, wait for the public release if your phone is otherwise stable, and ask Apple to investigate unrelated or persistent restarts.
FAQ
Is iOS 27.0.1 out now?
Not as of this September 24 article update. A fix is expected next week; Apple has not officially confirmed the version number.
Will iOS 27.0.1 fix iPhone 18 Pro Max restarting?
Apple confirmed a software fix for the specific failed-Face-ID crash, but the final version and real-world results need confirmation after release. Other restart causes may remain.
Why does my iPhone 18 Pro restart after Face ID fails?
Some devices freeze and reboot after a failed authentication attempt in protected apps. Apple has not disclosed the exact technical root cause.
Do I need to replace my iPhone 18 Pro?
Not solely for this known software issue. Contact Apple if the phone has other problems, is unusable or continues restarting after the fix.
Does iOS 27.2 Beta fix the Face ID bug?
No verified fix has been established for that beta. Wait for the public maintenance update unless Apple specifically identifies another remedy.
Is iPhone Ultra affected by this Face ID problem?
The foldable device formerly rumored as iPhone Ultra is officially iPhone Duo and uses Touch ID. The confirmed Face ID report concerns the iPhone 18 Pro models.
Can a MagSafe case or charger stop panic-full restarts?
No. A case or charger cannot repair an iOS crash. Select accessories for fit, protection and charging needs, not as a software fix.
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