4 Ways to Fix FaceTime Reactions (Gestures) Not Working

Basic Fixes

• Update iOS: Ensure your device is running on iOS 17 and above. Moreover, an updated OS will eliminate bugs, so update your device before anything else.
• Check supported devices: FaceTime reactions only work on iPhone 12 and newer models. Before you troubleshoot the issue, ensure you’re using the correct device.
• Clean front camera: Reactions work only while using the front camera; they’ll not work with the Rear camera. Try cleaning your front camera, and also ensure your iPhone’s screen protector is not covering the front camera.

Fix 1. Enable Reaction in the Control Center

Generally, reaction gesture effects are enabled by default. However, there is a setting that allows you to turn off gestures for activating reaction effects. You may have accidentally turned it off. So, try turning it on as shown below:

Step 1: Start a FaceTime call. Open Control Center on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap on Video Effects followed by Reactions to enable it.

Step 3: If it’s already active, tap it to turn it off and then turn on again.

Fix 2. Use the Right Actions to Activate Reactions

The FaceTime reactions can be activated in two ways.

1. Long-press on your camera view and the reactions will appear. Select the appropriate reaction to send.
2. Alternatively, you can activate reactions using certain gestures. So, ensure you use the right gestures to trigger reactions in FaceTime or any other video conferencing app on your iPhone.

Here’s a list of supported FaceTime reaction gestures on iOS and iPadOS 17+ and macOS.

Tip: If this reminds you of iMessage effects, here’s a list of iMessage tricks you can try out.

Fix 3. Be Patient and Within the Frame

If you use gestures to activate FaceTime reactions, be patient. Basically, the FaceTime gestures take a second or two to activate. These aren’t instant, but a moment or two is enough for your iPhone or iPad to detect the gesture and activate the associated reaction effect.

Furthermore, you should ensure that your face and hands are within the frame—both of these should be visible. Otherwise, FaceTime gestures will not work.

Tip: Know how to optimize FaceTime audio and video settings

Fix 4. Disable FaceTime Temporarily

Finally, if nothing helps, try disabling FaceTime temporarily. For that, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone.

Step 2: Go to FaceTime. Turn off the toggle for FaceTime.

Step 3: Restart your iPhone or iPad.

Step 4: Go back to Settings > FaceTime and enable FaceTime.

Tip: Know how to use iMessage or FaceTime without a SIM card on iPhone or iPad.