The latest update in the Android ecosystem brings exciting news for Pixel phone users. With the introduction of Android 16 Beta 3, all Pixel devices can now utilize the innovative Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock feature. This feature allows users to unlock their devices even when the screen is off, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
Initially debuted in Android 16 Developer Preview 2, the Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock feature was initially exclusive to the Pixel 9 series. However, it's now available for all Pixel phones, expanding its functionality significantly. Since the release of the Pixel 6, all Pixel devices (excluding foldables) have been equipped with an under-display fingerprint scanner. Traditionally, Pixel phones required the screen to be on for the fingerprint scanner to operate, but this limitation will soon be a thing of the past.
To activate this new feature on your Pixel phone, follow these simple steps: Go to Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint Unlock. Within the “when using Fingerprint Unlock” section, you will find an option to enable the Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock toggle. Once you enable this feature, you can easily unlock your phone by pressing the fingerprint scanner area, even when the screen is off. If the correct finger is used, your Pixel phone’s screen will illuminate and unlock seamlessly.
After confirming this feature works on the Pixel 6a and receiving verification from users of the Pixel 7 Pro, it’s clear that the Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock functionality is performing well across different models. While there is a possibility that Google may remove this feature in the final stable release of Android 16, there is currently no indication that this will happen.
If you're eager to try out this feature and don’t want to wait for the official Android 16 rollout, the only current option is to enable the always-on display, which keeps the fingerprint scanner active. Otherwise, simply hold off until the Android 16 update is available, and then remember to enable the Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock toggle in your Fingerprint Unlock settings, as it will be disabled by default.
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