Integrating Face ID & Touch ID Authentication in React Native Oct 09, 2025 | 9 minutes read 8 Likes Biometric Authentication Integration in React NativeBiometric authentication (Face ID and Touch ID) provides a seamless and secure way for users to log in or authorize sensitive actions in your app. In React Native, you can integrate biometrics using community libraries and platform APIs.In this guide, we’ll cover:Why biometrics matterChoosing the right libraryImplementation with react-native-keychain and react-native-biometricsHandling fallbacks and edge casesBest practices for security Why Use Biometrics?Security: Stronger than simple passwords or PINs.Convenience: Faster logins and approvals.Trust: Users expect native features like Face ID/Touch ID in modern apps.Typical use cases:Unlocking the app after an idle timeConfirming paymentsAccessing sensitive data (profile, wallet, documents) Choosing a LibraryTwo popular options are:react-native-keychain → Handles secure storage + biometric authentication.react-native-biometrics → Focused purely on biometric prompts and keys.For most apps, react-native-keychain is enough. Set up with react-native-keychainInstallnpm install react-native-keychainFor iOS:Enable Face ID / Touch ID in Xcode → Signing & Capabilities → Keychain Sharing.Add usage description in Info.plist: <key>NSFaceIDUsageDescription</key><string>We use Face ID to secure your account</string>For Android:No extra config needed, but the device must support biometrics. Storing Credentials Securely import * as Keychain from 'react-native-keychain'; // Save credentials with biometric access await Keychain.setGenericPassword('username', 'password', { accessControl: Keychain.ACCESS_CONTROL.BIOMETRY_ANY, accessible: Keychain.ACCESSIBLE.WHEN_UNLOCKED, }); Prompting Biometric Authentication import * as Keychain from 'react-native-keychain'; async function authenticate() { try { const creds = await Keychain.getGenericPassword({ authenticationPrompt: { title: 'Login with Face ID / Touch ID', }, }); if (creds) { console.log('Authenticated!', creds.username); } else { console.log('No credentials stored'); } } catch (err) { console.error('Authentication failed', err); } } On iOS → Face ID / Touch ID prompt appears.On Android → Biometric prompt (fingerprint/face, depending on device). Handling Fallbacks Not all devices have Face ID or Touch ID. Always provide fallbacks: const supported = await Keychain.getSupportedBiometryType(); if (supported) { console.log('Supported biometric:', supported); } else { console.log('Fallback to PIN/Password'); } Options:PIN/password screenSkip biometrics entirely if unsupported Using react-native-biometricsIf you need cryptographic keys tied to biometrics: npm install react-native-biometrics import ReactNativeBiometrics from 'react-native-biometrics'; const rnBiometrics = new ReactNativeBiometrics(); rnBiometrics.simplePrompt({ promptMessage: 'Confirm with Face ID / Touch ID' }) .then(result => { if (result.success) { console.log('Biometric authentication success'); } else { console.log('User cancelled'); } }); Best PracticesAlways give users an opt-in setting for biometrics.Provide a fallback method (PIN, password).Show clear prompts (e.g., “Use Face ID to log in to your account”).Store only tokens/keys, not raw passwords.Handle lockouts (too many failed attempts → fallback to password).Secure Your App with Biometric Authentication Enable NowThe Way ForwardIntegrating Face ID and Touch ID in React Native boosts both security and usability. Using libraries like react-native-keychain or react-native-biometrics, you can store credentials securely and prompt for biometric authentication with minimal code.With proper fallbacks, clear UX, and secure storage, your app can provide users with modern, secure login experiences.Free Consultation Authentication in React NativeBiometric Authentication Integration in React NativeReact NativeWhy biometrics matterLopa DasOct 09 2025With over 13 years of experience, Lopa Das is a seasoned professional at iFlair Web Technologies Pvt Ltd, specializing in web and mobile app development. Her technical expertise spans across Laravel, PHP, CodeIgniter, CakePHP, React, Vue.js, Nuxt.js, iOS, Android, Flutter, and React Native. Known for her exceptional skills in team handling, client communication, presales, and risk analysis, Lopa ensures seamless project execution from start to finish. 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