Lock Notes and Files Using Face ID on iPhone (iOS 18)

Protecting sensitive notes and documents is easier than ever with Face ID on iOS 18. Apple’s built-in Face ID protection lets you lock individual Notes and Files so no one can open them without your face verification. Follow these steps to secure your private content quickly and safely.

1. Set Up Face ID

Before using Face ID for Notes or Files, make sure it’s enabled and calibrated properly. Go to Settings → Face ID & Passcode → Enter your passcode → Tap Set Up Face ID if not already done.

Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the scan. Face ID must be active for app-level lock features to work.

📘 For setup guidance and iPhone basics, check the OnePlus iPhone Hub.

2. Lock Notes with Face ID

Apple’s Notes app supports biometric protection for individual notes. To lock a note: Open Notes → Select or create a note → Tap the Share icon → Lock Note → Use Face ID.

Once locked, the note’s content becomes hidden. Tap “View Note” and authenticate with Face ID to open it again.

You can remove the lock anytime by tapping the lock icon and choosing Remove Lock.

3. Protect Files in the Files App

While Files doesn’t have direct Face ID locking for each document, you can secure sensitive folders using Shortcuts or by moving files into Notes and locking them there.

Alternatively, use third-party apps supporting Face ID encryption such as Documents by Readdle or FileApp.

4. Manage Locked Notes Settings

To change how your locked notes behave: Settings → Notes → Password → Toggle Use Face ID.

You can also reset or update your Notes password here if needed. Keep this password somewhere safe — it’s required if Face ID becomes unavailable.

🔗 Explore more data protection tools and app permissions in Security & Privacy.

5. Auto-Lock Notes When Exiting

For extra privacy, Notes can automatically relock after you close the app or switch to another one. Open Settings → Notes → Lock Notes Automatically and set your preferred timeout.

This ensures your confidential information isn’t visible even if someone quickly borrows your iPhone.

6. Sync Locked Notes Across Devices

Locked Notes are synced securely via iCloud with end-to-end encryption. Go to Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → Notes → ON.

Only devices signed in with your Apple ID and authenticated via Face ID or passcode can access these notes.

OnePlus Tip

For maximum security, combine Face ID locks with Two-Factor Authentication and disable note previews in the Notes list. Restart your device periodically to refresh Face ID caches and keep iOS responsive. For additional optimization and smooth performance, visit Performance & System.