Google’s upcoming Pixel 9 lineup will reportedly feature a faster, more reliable ultrasonic fingerprint scanner Android AuthorityIt would replace the optical under-display fingerprint sensor that Google introduced on the Pixel 6 with the newer technology that can read even wet or greasy fingerprints.
The switch could also solve some of the widespread issues users have experienced when trying to unlock their Pixel devices, with some people saying that light levels and dry fingers can impact the reliability of the previous optical reader. Optical scanners are the oldest method of reading fingerprints. They work by flashing light against the user’s finger and then visually detecting patterns and ridges on the surface – meaning that any changes like dirt or smudges can disrupt the process.
Ultrasonic sensors, on the other hand, read fingerprints with better accuracy by bouncing ultrasonic pulses off of them, which also saves users from being blinded when unlocking their phone at night. According to reliable leaker Kamila Wojciechowska, the Pixel 9 will use Qualcomm’s 3D Sonic Gen 2 (QFS4008), the same model found on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.