FaceTime Not Working on iOS 13? Here’s How to Fix the Connection Error

If FaceTime stopped working after installing iOS 13, you’re not alone. Some iPhone users have experienced FaceTime connection errors, failed calls, or unresponsive features after the update. The issue might be tied to software glitches, account problems, or even Apple’s own servers.

Here’s a complete guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the FaceTime connection error on your iPhone running iOS 13.

Before You Begin: Quick Checks

Check Apple’s System Status page – If FaceTime is down on Apple’s end, you’ll need to wait for them to fix it.
Ensure Date & Time is set to automatic – Go to Settings > General > Date & Time, and turn on Set Automatically.
FaceTime is only available in select regions – Make sure FaceTime is supported by your country and carrier.

1. Toggle FaceTime Off and On

A quick on/off switch can refresh the app’s connection.

Steps:

Go to Settings > FaceTime
Toggle FaceTime OFF, wait a few seconds, then toggle it ON

Then try opening the FaceTime app again.

2. Sign Out of Apple ID and Sign Back In

Expired or invalid Apple ID sessions can trigger FaceTime login errors.

To refresh your account:

Go to Settings > FaceTime
Tap your Apple ID > Sign Out
Sign back in with your correct Apple ID credentials

Check to ensure the correct phone number and email are selected under “You can be reached by FaceTime at.”

3. Reboot Your iPhone (Soft Reset)

Minor bugs from the update can cause FaceTime to act up. Restarting clears temporary files and refreshes system processes.

On iPhone XR / XS / X or newer:

Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up/Down until the power slider appears
Slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, then hold the Side button to restart

On older models (iPhone 8 and earlier):

Hold Home + Power button until you see the Apple logo

4. Refresh Your Internet Connection

FaceTime needs a stable connection — refresh Wi-Fi or cellular with these steps:

Toggle Wi-Fi OFF > wait > ON again from Settings > Wi-Fi
Or toggle Airplane Mode ON, wait 30 seconds, then turn it OFF

Still slow or unstable? Try connecting to another Wi-Fi network and test FaceTime.

5. Check for App Restrictions

FaceTime may be blocked by Content & Privacy Restrictions.

To check:

Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions
Tap Allowed Apps
Make sure FaceTime is enabled

If FaceTime is disabled here, it won’t function at all.

6. Reset All Settings

If your iOS 13 update changed system settings, a reset can undo bad configurations without erasing your data.

To reset:

Go to Settings > General > Reset
Tap Reset All Settings
Enter your passcode and confirm

This resets Wi-Fi passwords, preferences, and settings to default — but not your photos or apps.

7. Check or Reseat Your SIM Card

If your SIM card is loose or unrecognized, FaceTime may not validate your phone number.

Steps:

Power off your iPhone
Use a SIM ejector to remove the SIM tray
Reinsert the SIM card, power back on, and check FaceTime again

Ensure your active phone number is listed under Settings > FaceTime.

8. Update Carrier Settings

Outdated carrier settings can cause phone number activation issues for FaceTime.

Go to Settings > General > About
Wait a few seconds — if a carrier update is available, you’ll see a prompt

Follow the instructions and then restart your iPhone.

Still Getting FaceTime Errors on iOS 13?

If none of the above steps work:

Contact Apple Support for more advanced troubleshooting
Visit your carrier to confirm FaceTime is activated on your plan
Restore iOS via iTunes in Recovery Mode if the issue seems system-wide

If FaceTime only stopped working after an iOS update, Apple may release a future patch — so be sure to keep your iPhone updated.