Google announced its new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro handsets in the second half of 2023. The company reimagined the Pixel this year with a boatload of new changes and enhancements for a streamlined user experience. While there are several changes in the mix, the Pixel 8 series still features an optical fingerprint sensor instead of an ultrasonic one, like on the latest Galaxy S24 models. The optical fingerprint scanner on the Pixel 8 is slower and less reliable than the ultrasonic sensor, but there is a workaround to make it faster.
This is how you can easily improve the speed and reliability of the fingerprint scanner on your Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
Google's new Pixel 8 handsets are received well worldwide, with radical changes designed specifically for the 'Pro' model. If you are having issues with the fingerprint scanner on the new Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, there is a workaround that you can use to make it faster. The workaround does not cater to issues but offers a slightly faster experience. We have been using the technique for years, and the number of failed attempts has been reduced, which means the technique improves the scanner's reliability.
If you are unfamiliar, we have devised a series of instructions below, which you can follow to make the fingerprint scanner faster on your new Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The technique revolves around registering fingerprints multiple times for the same finger. This reduces the margin of error from the device's end as it has an alternate option to try. For instance, Finger 1 could fail, but Finger 2 will be approved. Since both registered prints belong to the same finger, it ultimately reduces the chances of failed attempts. Follow the steps below for more details.
Step 1: Launch the stock Settings app on your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro.
Step 2: Head over to Security & Privacy and select Device Unlock.
Step 3: Select Fingerprint Unlock and add your password for the device.
Step 4: Tap on Fingerprint & Face Unlock.
Step 5: Select Add Fingerprint and follow the instructions to set up a new print for the same finger.
The process to make the fingerprint scanner faster and more reliable is simple but effective. I have set four alternate prints for the same finger and as mentioned before, the reliability is greatly improved. You can also try the technique if you have scratches on the display or notice that the scanner has slowed down over time. Additionally, the technique can also be used on older Pixel phones that run Android 14. We have tried it on the Pixel 6 as well, and the results are the same. We will share more details on the Google Pixel 8, so be sure to stick around.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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