Say Goodbye to Screen-On Unlocking! Android 16 Brings Off-Screen Fingerprint Unlock to Pixel Phones

Say Goodbye to Screen-On Unlocking! Android 16 Brings Off-Screen Fingerprint Unlock to Pixel PhonesSince the Google Pixel 6 series, Pixel phones (excluding foldable models) have been a favorite among users, with their under-display fingerprint sensors being a key feature. However, unlike most smartphones on the market, Pixel phones previously had a significant limitation: fingerprint unlocking was only possible with the screen already on

Say Goodbye to Screen-On Unlocking! Android 16 Brings Off-Screen Fingerprint Unlock to Pixel Phones

Since the Google Pixel 6 series, Pixel phones (excluding foldable models) have been a favorite among users, with their under-display fingerprint sensors being a key feature. However, unlike most smartphones on the market, Pixel phones previously had a significant limitation: fingerprint unlocking was only possible with the screen already on. This meant users needed to wake the screen before unlocking, adding an extra step and making the process slightly inconvenient. This is about to change. According to Android Authority, the highly anticipated Android 16 update will bring an exciting upgrade for Pixel phone users: off-screen fingerprint unlocking.

This means that on Android 16, users can unlock their phones using their fingerprint without turning on the screen. This addition will significantly improve the user experience, making operation more convenient and efficient. Imagine, in the dark or low-light conditions, you don't have to struggle to find the power button; simply place your finger on the fingerprint sensor, and the phone will unlock automatically, saving time and effort, and aligning better with user habits.

Enabling off-screen fingerprint unlocking in Android 16 is straightforward. Simply follow these steps: Go to your phone's "Settings," then select "Security & Privacy," "Device Lock," "Face & Fingerprint Unlock," and finally, "Fingerprint Unlock." In the "When using fingerprint unlock" options, you'll find the "Off-screen fingerprint unlock" toggle; switch it on. Now, when your Pixel phone's screen is off, simply press your finger on the fingerprint sensor, and the screen will automatically light up and unlock. The process is smooth and natural.

This highly anticipated feature isn't a last-minute addition to Android 16. Google has been testing it since the second developer preview of Android 16, initially limited to the Pixel 9 series. After testing and optimization, Google expanded the feature in Android 16 Beta 3 to all Pixel phones supporting under-display fingerprint unlocking, including popular models like the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7 Pro. Android Authority has confirmed this, reporting successful off-screen fingerprint unlocking on these models.

Currently, there's no indication that Google will remove this feature in the final Android 16 release. This means that Pixel users will soon be able to enjoy this convenient upgrade. If you're eager to experience off-screen fingerprint unlocking, joining the Android 16 Beta program is a good option. However, if you prefer not to participate in beta testing and avoid potential system instability, patiently waiting for the official Android 16 release is a safer approach.

Before the official Android 16 release, if you can't tolerate the screen-on requirement, there's a temporary workaround: enable the "Always-on Display" feature. This keeps your screen dimly lit, allowing you to use fingerprint unlocking at any time. While not a perfect solution, it can alleviate the wait for Android 16.

In conclusion, off-screen fingerprint unlocking in Android 16 is a significant upgrade for Pixel phone users. This feature not only enhances convenience but also demonstrates Google's continued focus on improving user experience. The era of screen-on unlocking is ending, leading to a smoother, more natural unlocking experience. This feature will likely increase user satisfaction and strengthen Pixel's competitiveness in the Android market. Android 16 promises an exciting surprise for Pixel users let's look forward to it!

It's worth reiterating that before the official Android 16 release, if you don't want to wait and haven't joined the beta program, enabling "Always-on Display" is the only viable alternative. This keeps your Pixel screen dimly lit, allowing fingerprint unlocking. However, note that "Always-on Display" increases battery consumption, so users should weigh the pros and cons. After the official Android 16 update, simply enable "Off-screen fingerprint unlock" in the fingerprint unlock settings (it's off by default) using the steps described above. This convenient feature will significantly improve the user experience, marking a substantial enhancement, not just a simple feature upgrade.