Google's upcoming Android 16 operating system is set to introduce a convenient new feature that could save users precious seconds throughout their day. The latest beta version reveals a time-saving improvement to how Pixel phones handle fingerprint authentication, addressing a long-standing limitation in Google's smartphone lineup.
Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock Coming to Pixel Devices
Android 16 Beta 3 introduces a feature called Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock that allows users to authenticate and unlock their Pixel phones without first waking the screen. This functionality, already available on many Android devices from other manufacturers, is finally making its way to Google's Pixel lineup. The feature works with all Pixel models equipped with an in-display fingerprint sensor, which includes the Pixel 6 and newer devices. By eliminating the need to wake the display before authentication, this seemingly small enhancement could significantly streamline the device unlocking process that users perform dozens of times daily.
How to Enable the New Unlock Feature
Users running Android 16 Beta 3 can enable this feature by navigating to Settings, then Security and privacy, followed by Device unlock, Face and Fingerprint Unlock, and finally Fingerprint Unlock. Within this menu, there's a new toggle for Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock. Once activated, users simply need to place their finger on the in-display sensor location while the screen is off, and the phone will authenticate and unlock in one seamless motion. This brings Pixel phones in line with competing Android devices that have offered similar functionality for some time.
Android 16 Release Timeline
Google is expected to officially release Android 16 during the second quarter of 2025, meaning the final version should arrive sometime between April and June. The operating system has been in development since at least November of last year, when the first developer preview was released. Google has been steadily refining the software through multiple beta versions, with Beta 3 being the most recent public test release.
Android 16 Key Features:
- Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock
- Enhanced health data management
- Live Updates for lock screen
- Advanced camera tools
- Improved desktop mode support
- New battery health screen
Compatible Devices:
- Google Pixel 6 and newer models
- Other Android devices (after initial Pixel rollout)
Expected Release: Q2 2025 (April-June)
Additional Android 16 Features
Beyond the fingerprint unlock improvement, Android 16 packs several other notable enhancements. The update will introduce improved health data management, potentially extending to Fitbit integration. A new Live Updates feature will allow apps to display information directly on the lock screen. Camera enthusiasts will appreciate advanced photography tools, while productivity-focused users will benefit from enhanced desktop mode support when connecting to external displays. A new battery health screen will provide more detailed information about device power status. As with previous Android versions, Pixel phones will receive the update first, followed by devices from Samsung, OnePlus, and other manufacturers.
Beta Testing Considerations
For those eager to try the screen-off fingerprint unlock feature before the official release, joining the Android 16 beta program is possible through Google's Android beta website. However, potential testers should proceed with caution. Beta software is inherently unstable and could cause critical functions to fail. Google warns that reverting to a stable Android version requires erasing all device data, and restoring from backups isn't always successful. Creating a full device backup before installing any beta software is strongly recommended.