iMac Touch ID no longer available

For some reason I was not given the option to use Touch ID to unlock my Mac. In Settings Preferences, I couldn't add another finger nor were any of the options for Touch ID available. They were all grayed out. I deleted the one finger print, thinking if I added it again it would work. Now the option is gone completely. Any help is greatly appreciated.



[Edited by Moderator]

Posted on Oct 16, 2025 12:54 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 16, 2025 1:47 PM

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.


NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files


NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.


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6 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 16, 2025 1:47 PM in response to Arbehbe

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.


NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files


NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.


􁾨

􁾬


Oct 16, 2025 3:13 PM in response to Arbehbe

Next boot into the Recovery volume (boot with the Command + R keys held down  - Intel Macs) or  (How to Boot a Silicon Mac into Recovery Mode) and reinstall the system. It will not affect your user data.



The screenshot is from Sequoia, Version 15.7.1 (24G231). You give no information about your Mac or system but it'll be essentially the same.



[Edited by Moderator]

iMac Touch ID no longer available

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