Android 16 has a helpful new fingerprint unlock characteristic

Android 15 solely arrived just lately, however discuss is already shifting to Android 16. The subsequent main replace for Android is now out there in developer preview, and it is received a helpful new fingerprint unlock characteristic.

With Android 16 Developer Preview 2 there is a new characteristic referred to as “Display-off fingerprint unlock” that permits customers to unlock their cellphone with its fingerprint sensor when the system’s display is totally off.

Proper now, the characteristic is just supported on the Pixel 9 sequence, probably as a result of the telephones have an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. In keeping with 9to5Google, the characteristic pops up within the Settings seek for the Pixel 8 Professional, however there is not an choice to allow it, probably as a result of it makes use of an optical fingerprint sensor. It is unclear if different Android telephones with ultrasonic fingerprint sensors will assist this characteristic sooner or later, however hopefully, they may.

How you can allow Display-off fingerprint unlock

This characteristic is nice for individuals who do not use always-on show

For those who’re on Android 16’s newest developer preview and need to check out this characteristic in your Pixel 9, head over to Settings > Safety & privateness > Gadget unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint Unlock to allow it.

For those who use always-on show (AOD), this characteristic may not be a giant deal to you, as the flexibility to unlock your cellphone along with your fingerprint is all the time there. Nonetheless, in the event you’re like me and do not use AOD in your Pixel, this characteristic is a welcome addition and takes benefit of the Pixel 9’s ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

An ultrasonic fingerprint sensor makes use of sound waves, not gentle, to seize your fingerprint, so it may be used when the show is turned off. Optical fingerprint sensors work by shining a light-weight in your finger and taking an image. Since optical depends on gentle, it is extra difficult to make use of in low-light environments and when the display is off.

For those who aren’t able to check out Android 16 simply but, don’t fret, as Google just lately launched its December Pixel Feature Drop, which is filled with new options to check out in your Pixel.

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