What Is Touch ID and How to Use Touch ID on iPhone/iPad

Samuel Spenser Published on May 09, 2026Unlock iOS3-min reading

As a biometric ID, Apple's Touch ID is an electronic fingerprint recognition feature designed for specific iPhone and iPad models. It allows users to unlock their iOS devices, make purchases, and authenticate Apple Pay online or in apps. However, there are questions about this secure measure among Apple users. This article explains this system and shares the information about it you should know, such as how to use it on an iPhone or iPad.

Part 1. Where Is Touch ID on iPad and iPhone

As mentioned previously, Apple Touch ID is the biometric ID system designed for unlocking iOS devices without frequently entering the passcode. It was introduced in the iPhone 5s in 2013. In 2015, Apple developed the second-generation Touch ID in the iPhone 6s, which is faster than the first-generation. The iPad Touch ID was introduced in 2014 when releasing iPad Air2.

How does Touch ID work? Apple Touch ID works through a fingerprint sensor. It can scan, read, and recognize fingerprints. Once you enable Face ID, the sensor captures high-resolution images of your fingerprint in 360 degrees of orientation and analyzes the epidermal layers of the skin. When you want to unlock your iOS device or use payment, put your finger on the sensor, and it will match and recognize your fingerprints.

Where is Touch ID on iPad? Depending on your iPhone or iPad model, Touch ID is built into the Home or Top button, which is made of laser-cut sapphire crystal and won't scratch easily. If your iPad comes with a Home button, the Touch ID sensor is built into the button. If not, it may be built into the Top button.

The iPhone and iPad Models with Touch ID

iPhone 8/8 Plus/7/7 Plus/6s/6s Plus/5s

iPhone SE 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation

iPad 5th to 11th generation

iPad Pro was released in 2015 and later

iPad Air 2nd to 6th generation

iPad mini 3 to 7

Part 2. How to Set up Touch ID on iPad/iPhone

By default, Touch ID is disabled, and you need to set up Touch ID on your iPad/iPhone. According to Apple, you can add up to 5 fingerprints on a single device. Moreover, you can use more than one person's fingerprints on one iPad or iPhone.

Moreover, you can use Touch ID for the App Store, Apple Pay, and Password AutoFill by enabling the corresponding options.

Part 3. How to Turn off Touch ID on iPad

When you want to stop using fingerprints, you can temporarily turn off Touch ID on iPad/iPhone or completely delete fingerprints from your device. Moreover, you can disable Touch ID for specific services.

Turn off Touch ID on iPad

Delete Touch ID on iPad

Part 4. What to Do If Touch ID Is Not Working

If Touch ID is not working or you cannot turn off Touch ID, try imyPass iPassGo. It can remove all your fingerprints from your iPad or iPhone without any restrictions. Furthermore, the workflow is simple due to the user-friendly design.

How to Turn off Touch ID on Your iPad Without a Passcode

Start the Touch ID removal software after installing it on your PC. There is another version for Mac users. Connect your iPad or iPhone to your PC with a Lightning cable. If prompted, trust this PC. Go to the Wipe Passcode mode.

After your device is detected, click the Start button to load the information. Check them and click the Start button to begin downloading the firmware package.

Wait for the download to finish, and then click the Unlock button to continue. Read the on-screen notification and follow the prompts to complete the process. This process will also factory reset your iPhone. When it is done, your iPad will restart, and you can unlock it directly.

Conclusion

This article shared one of the biometric ID systems, Apple Touch ID. Following our introduction, you should understand what it is and how it works. More importantly, you can follow our guide to add your fingerprints to your iOS device and use it for various services. Moreover, we recommended imyPass iPassGo. It can help you remove fingerprints even if your iPad is inaccessible or disabled without technical skills.