Android 16 allows the Pixel 9 to use the fingerprint sensor when the screen is off

A new option coming to Pixel phones in Android 16 is the ability to use the fingerprint sensor when the screen is off.

In Android 16 DP2, Google adds an option to “Unlock screen-off fingerprint”. This allows users to use the fingerprint sensor even when the screen is completely off. This was one of the only truly new features added in Android 16 Developer Preview 2, as the other visible changes were mostly cosmetic in nature.

This change only seems to be supported on the Pixel 9 series, as we were able to find this option in the Settings search on the Pixel 8 Pro, but the option doesn’t actually appear for use. Most likely, it is related to The new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor used by Google in its latest devicesunlike the previously used optic. With previous technology, the practical drawback of leaving the fingerprint sensor on all the time was that the light would accidentally turn on, which was often a nuisance in dark environments. With ultrasound, no light is involved, making for a more seamless experience.

Of course, this functionality has technically always been available for those using always-on display (AOD) settings, so the fingerprint sensor, even the optical ones, continues to be available when the time is displayed (this avoids glare from the optical display). sensors). This new option is primarily useful for non-AOD users.

On the Pixel 9, the new setting is available via Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock > Face & Fingerprint unlock > Fingerprint unlock only if Android 16 Developer Preview 2 is installed.

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