How to fix Touch ID on Magic Keyboard
Now that we know you have an Apple silicon Mac let’s look at how we can get Touch ID working. After each step, try using Touch ID.
1. Ensure you have the latest version of macOS
2. Clean the Touch ID with a lint-free cloth, and ensure your hands are clean.
3. When using the Touch ID, completely cover the sensor with your finger. While Touch ID is scanning your fingerprint, you shouldn’t tap the sensor too quickly or move your finger around.
4. Click the Apple menu and then System Preferences from the drop-down menu.
5. Click Touch ID, and ensure you have “Unlocking your Mac” or “Tunes” Store, App Store & Apple Books” turned on.
6. Make sure you have enrolled your fingerprint.
7. Enroll another finger
8. Restart your Mac
Hopefully, we helped you get your keyboard with Touch ID working on your Apple silicon Mac. If you are still having problems visit Apples support page.
If you found this article helpful, you might also find these Mac Advisers articles useful as well.
Drop your comments below!
I hit a failure mode that is discussed in very few places – and none with the answer, so I had to spend ~90m with Apple support – and I’d like to share it with all of you.
If you buy the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID for Apple Silicon Macs *separately* from your Mac (e.g., Mac Studio), and then pair them for the first time, there is a step where you are asked to quick-double-press the power button on your Mac.
The best technical discussion of this is here: https://daringfireball.net/2021/06/secure_intent_on_apple_devices
When I did this, nothing happened. The solution: I was double pressing the power too slowly. You need it to be as fast as a fast double-click on a mouse, despite this being more awkward on the power button.
Good luck all!
Paul, thanks, man! We appreciate you taking the time to help out!
-Jeremy