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Fix OneNote for iOS Asking for Password Instead of Face ID

Phi Hung Vo Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is seeking a solution for an issue where OneNote fails to use biometric authentication for protected notebooks and instead requires manual password entry.

How to Fix OneNote for iOS Repeatedly Requesting a Password Instead of Face ID

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: iOS 18 beta
Scenario: Attempting to unlock password-protected notebooks using Face ID on an iPhone or iPad.
Observed behavior: OneNote bypasses the Face ID prompt and directly asks the user to type their password, despite the 'Open with Face ID' option being enabled in settings. This specifically occurs on the iOS 18 beta.

Before you start

Verify that you know the actual text password for your protected notebooks. Face ID is only a convenience shortcut; if you forget the master password, neither Microsoft nor Apple can recover the encrypted notebook.

Solution 1Recommended

Submit Feedback for the iOS 18 Beta Bug

Since this is primarily a compatibility bug between the iOS 18 beta and the current version of OneNote, reporting it directly to Microsoft is the most effective way to ensure it gets patched in the next app update.

Running beta versions of an operating system frequently causes third-party apps to experience biometric authentication failures.

Microsoft's development team monitors user feedback to issue compatibility patches before the official public release of new iOS versions.

Open the OneNote App

Launch Microsoft OneNote on your iPhone or iPad running the iOS 18 beta.

Navigate to Settings

Tap on your profile picture or the gear icon to open the OneNote Settings menu.

Select Help & Feedback

Scroll down and tap on 'Send Feedback' or 'Tell Us What Can Be Better'.

Detail the Issue

Write a clear description stating that Face ID fails to prompt for protected notebooks on iOS 18 beta. Include your exact iOS version, OneNote app version, and the type of notebook you are trying to open.

Beta Software Disclaimer: App developers typically roll out full optimization updates closer to the official public release of a new iOS version. Until then, manual password entry may remain necessary.

Solution 2

Toggle Face ID Settings in OneNote

Refreshing the biometric permissions can sometimes force the app to recognize the Face ID API again.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Stable Document Management on iOS

Beta operating systems can cause unexpected bugs in specialized apps like OneNote. If you are experiencing ongoing compatibility issues, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for viewing, editing, and protecting your important documents across all mobile platforms.

1. Download WPS Office: Get the WPS Office app for free from the Apple App Store.
2. Sign In or Create an Account: Launch the app and log in to sync your documents across your devices.
3. Manage Your Documents securely: Import your existing files and easily apply reliable password protection to your private documents.

Stable performance across all iOS versions, minimizing beta compatibility disruptionsFully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Free, lightweight, and features an intuitive interface similar to what you're used toBuilt-in PDF tools and document encryption features to keep your files secure

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneNote ignore Face ID after an iOS update?

Major OS updates, particularly beta versions like iOS 18 beta, often alter system APIs related to security and biometrics. Apps like OneNote require developer updates to properly interface with these new system changes, leading to temporary authentication bugs.

Can I recover a password-protected OneNote section using only Face ID?

No. Face ID is merely a convenience feature that auto-fills your password. The underlying encryption always requires the original master password. If you forget it, the notebook section cannot be recovered.

How do I turn off password protection in OneNote?

You must first unlock the protected section using your password. Once unlocked, tap or click the section tab, choose 'Password Protection', and select 'Remove Password'.

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