Google’s upcoming Pixel 9 and 9 Pro smartphones are rumored to incorporate an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, a significant upgrade from the optical under-display sensors used in previous models.
The change aims to address long-standing user complaints about the performance of the Pixel’s fingerprint recognition system.
The Qualcomm 3D Sonic Gen 2 sensor, expected to be used in the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro, uses inaudible sound waves to map the unique ridges and valleys of a fingerprint. This approach offers a more accurate and faster fingerprint recognition experience, even when fingers are wet.
The Qualcomm sensor has an 8x8mm surface area, which is larger than the first-generation 4x9mm scanners, allowing for easier finger placement and capturing more biometric data.
Since the Pixel 6 introduced an under-display optical sensor, users have noted performance issues, particularly with screen protectors, and in terms of speed and reliability. The Pixel 6a tried to improve upon these issues with a different sensor, but it also reduced the number of fingers that could be registered from five to four.
Despite the introduction of face unlock technology in the Pixel 8, which works well under normal lighting conditions, it falls short in low-light environments, necessitating a more reliable fingerprint solution. The move to an ultrasonic sensor in the Pixel 9 series is expected to enhance the overall user experience by providing a faster and more dependable method for unlocking the device.
While the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will retain its side-mounted sensor integrated into the power button, the switch to ultrasonic technology in the other models marks a significant advancement for the Pixel lineup.
Source: 9to5 Google
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July 5, 2024 — by Tony Bitzionis
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