Android 16 Beta 3 Brings Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock to More Pixel Devices
The latest Android 16 Beta 3 (and Beta 3.1) update has introduced an exciting feature for Pixel users — the ability to unlock devices using fingerprint authentication even when the screen is off. Previously, this feature was exclusive to the upcoming Pixel 9, but now, it has been expanded to include devices from the Pixel 6 and newer.
This update marks a significant improvement in convenience and security, allowing users to access their phones without needing to wake the screen. Here’s everything you need to know about this new feature and how it enhances the biometric security experience on Pixel devices.
How to Enable Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock on Pixel Devices
If you’re running Android 16 Beta 3 on your Pixel 6 or later, you can enable Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock by following these steps:
- Open Settings on your Pixel device.
- Navigate to Security & privacy.
- Tap on Device unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock.
- Select Fingerprint Unlock.
- Toggle “Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock” to enable the feature.
Once activated, this function allows you to unlock your phone without illuminating the display, which can be particularly useful in dark environments.
Why Is This Feature Important?
One of the biggest advantages of screen-off fingerprint unlock is that it allows users to access their phones discreetly without lighting up the screen. This is especially useful:
- At night, so your phone’s bright screen doesn’t wake you up.
- In meetings or quiet environments, where turning on the screen might be disruptive.
- For improved security, since the display remains dark, preventing others from seeing your notifications.
How It Works on Different Pixel Models
While Pixel 9 uses an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which doesn’t require bright LED illumination, older Pixel models like the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8, and Pixel 9a use optical fingerprint scanners. These require light to scan fingerprints, making the feature a bit more complex on these models.
It’s not entirely clear how Google has optimized this feature for older Pixels, but reports indicate it works on the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7 Pro. The under-display LEDs may be dimmed to reduce brightness during unlock, though this might slightly affect accuracy.
Until further testing confirms its reliability, users should try enabling the feature and see how well it works on their devices.
With Pixel phones gaining new features like screen-off fingerprint unlock, many users may be considering switching to a new device. Whether upgrading from an older Pixel or moving from another brand, Smart Transfer move files data makes device migration seamless.
Smart Transfer is a third-party share files app that allows users to transfer contacts, messages, photos, videos, and app data effortlessly between devices. Instead of manually setting up a new phone, this app ensures that all your essential data moves smoothly without hassle.
As Android 16 continues to improve the user experience, Smart Transfer’s switch mobile feature helps ensure that switching devices is just as easy, allowing users to enjoy new Pixel features without losing important data.
Final Thoughts
The screen-off fingerprint unlock feature in Android 16 Beta 3 brings a major usability boost to Pixel devices, allowing users to unlock their phones faster and more discreetly. While Pixel 9’s ultrasonic scanner makes this process seamless, older Pixels may require dimmed LED lighting to enable the feature.
For those upgrading their phones, using a reliable transfer app like Smart Transfer ensures that no data is lost in the process. As Google continues refining biometric security, Pixel users can expect even more enhancements to convenience and privacy in future updates.
