Android 16 Introduces Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock for Pixel Smartphones
Google implements an important improvement in Android 16: the unlocking by fingerprint will work in the future even when the display is switched off. This function, which has been standard at other manufacturers for years, is introduced with Android 16.
With Android 16, Google eliminates one of the most common criticisms of its pixel smartphones, namely the rather cumbersome fingerprint lock. So far, users had to activate the display before they could put their fingers on the sensor. With the upcoming update, it will be removed unnecessary hurdles from the point of view of the user experience.
The new “screen -off fingerprint unlock” function makes it possible to unlock the smartphone directly by laying the finger onto the sensor – even if the display is completely dark. After installation, the option can be activated in the settings in data protection & security> Device drawing> Unlaceration by facial recognition & fingerprint> unlocking with fingerprint.
View on YouTube
How Android Authority reported, the function was initially only introduced in the second developer preview of Android 16 for the Pixel 9 series. With the third beta version, it is now also available on older Pixel models. Smartphones from Samsung and OnePlus have been offering this comfort function for years – with faster response times than the current pixel implementation.
Technical features
The new unlocking method initially requires some practice: Since the display is switched off, users have to blindly feel the position of the fingerprint sensor. With an activated always-on display, the innovation brings hardly any advantages, since the sensor is permanently active in this mode anyway.
The function has already been tested on various pixel models, including the Pixel 6a and the Pixel 7 Pro. Even if the feature is currently only available in the beta version, there is nothing to be said against the current status that it will find the way to the final version of Android 16.
