By Key Points
- Android 16 makes unlocking the Pixel 9 faster and easier
- No need to turn on the screen, thanks to ultrasonic sensors
- Avoid blinding screen light during late-night unlocks
- Works exclusively with Pixel 9’s upgraded fingerprint sensor
Android 16 introduces a major upgrade for Pixel 9 users: unlocking your phone using the fingerprint sensor without waking the screen. This feature enhances biometric security and offers seamless convenience.
Unlike previous Pixel models that rely on optical sensors, the Pixel 9’s ultrasonic fingerprint sensor doesn’t need light to function.
The feature was discovered in Android 16 Developer Preview 2 (DP2) by 9to5Google. Though it shows up on the Pixel 8 Pro in the settings search, it can’t be activated due to hardware limitations. The Pixel 9’s ultrasonic sensor is the key to making this possible.
The Android 16DP2 update has made the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor on the Google Pixel 9 series much more user-friendly and reliable.
Here’s what’s improved:
• Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor
• Speed and Reliability
• Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock
• User Experience pic.twitter.com/pQrX2iFecq— Space Splits (@SpaceSplits) December 20, 2024
How to Enable the New Android 16 Pixel 9 Fingerprint Unlock
To enable this feature on the Pixel 9 running Android 16 DP2, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Security & Privacy.
- Select Device Unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint Unlock.
If you’re not part of the Android 16 developer preview, this option won’t be visible yet. This enhancement is exclusive to the Pixel 9 series due to its advanced ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.
Why Pixel 9’s New Fingerprint Unlock Matters
In older Pixel devices, optical fingerprint sensors require the screen to be on for scanning. This often leads to unpleasantly bright light in dark settings. Many users resorted to the always-on display (AOD) to keep the fingerprint sensor active, but that can drain battery life.
The Android 16 Pixel 9 fingerprint unlock feature offers a smarter solution. With this update, you can:
- Unlock your phone quickly without waking the screen.
- Avoid blinding light during nighttime unlocks.
- Conserve battery by skipping the always-on display.
For those with older Pixel models, enabling AOD remains the only option. However, Pixel 9 users can now enjoy superior convenience and efficiency thanks to Android 16.
More Updates Coming with Android 16
While the ability to unlock the Pixel 9 without turning on the screen is a standout feature, Android 16 DP2 brings other minor improvements as well. Although these updates are subtle, they continue to enhance the overall user experience.
This fingerprint unlock upgrade is a major win for convenience and reflects Google’s commitment to improving biometric security. As Android 16 development continues, Pixel 9 users can look forward to more innovative features.
