Google Expands Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock to Older Pixel Phones

Google is expanding its screen-off fingerprint unlock capability to older Pixel devices through Android 16 Beta 3, marking a significant improvement in device accessibility. The feature, which was previously exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, now allows users of older Pixel models to unlock their phones by simply placing their finger on the scanner without first waking the screen.

The expansion covers Pixel devices equipped with under-display fingerprint scanners, including models from the Pixel 6 series onward. Early testing has confirmed successful implementation on devices like the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7 Pro, representing a usability upgrade for millions of existing Pixel users.

The news addresses a long-standing limitation in Google’s implementation of fingerprint unlocking. While many Android manufacturers have offered screen-off fingerprint unlock capabilities, Google had previously required users to manually wake their device’s display before using the fingerprint scanner.

Users can enable the feature through their device settings under Security & privacy > Device unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint Unlock, where they’ll find a new toggle for “Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock.” The feature is currently available to users running Android 16 Beta 3.

The implementation is particularly noteworthy given the technical challenges involved with optical fingerprint scanners, which typically require illumination to read fingerprints. Google appears to have solved this by carefully managing the LEDs around the scanner while maintaining the appearance of a completely dark screen.

This update builds on Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance biometric authentication on Pixel devices. The company has previously faced challenges with fingerprint sensor performance, particularly with the Pixel 6 series, making this latest improvement a significant step forward in both functionality and user experience.

The feature is expected to move out of beta and become widely available with the stable release of Android 16, anticipated to launch in late June 2025.

Sources: India Today, Android Police

—
March 24, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team