A method for enabling a function module of a terminal, and a terminal device. The method includes detecting a touch operation that is performed by a user on a sensor, where the sensor is disposed in an area on an outer surface of the terminal except on a touchscreen; generating touch information according to the touch operation; and when the generated touch information meets a condition of enabling a function module of the terminal or enabling a function type of the function module, enabling the function module or the function type of the function module.