Google has introduced a feature that will make screen-off fingerprint unlocking possible on the Pixel 9 device starting with the second Android 16 beta. The faster ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, which was first introduced in the Pixel 9, now allows for speed and accuracy improvements even when the screen is off.
The new ‘Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock’ setting can be found in the Android 16 DP2 settings menu, but it’s not compatible with older Pixel models that use optical fingerprint sensors. Users will need to wait until their OEM adds support for ultrasonic scanners or move the fingerprint scanner to the back of the phone.
This feature addresses one of the long-standing frustrations with in-screen fingerprint readers – the need to wake up the screen before using them. The new update is a welcome improvement for Pixel 9 owners, but it’s not available on all devices yet.
Source: https://www.androidpolice.com/android-16-fingerprint-unlock