Google Improves Fingerprint Scanner Performance With A Pixel 6 Update

Recall that Google recently introduced the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro at the pixel event which took place on Oct. 19. The redesigned pixel smartphone was launched with its sleek distinctive design and powered by Google Tensor. The latest Pixel addition is Google’s first-ever processor to come with an Android 12. These smartphones are reported to be fast, incredibly smart, and secure just for you.

However, complaints have emerged since its launch, last month a reviewer complained that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro were often finicky in performance or slow in recognizing user print. Google quietly rolled out a Pixel 6 update which addresses its fingerprint scanner issues, as first reported by XDA Developers. Details of the update were confirmed in a post on Google page,  which includes “minor bug fixes and some fingerprint sensor performance improvements for the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro smartphones.” The post didn’t clearly state details of how the sensor was improved.

In response to last month, reviewer’s complaint, Google said that the scanner’s “enhanced security algorithms” may have resulted in sluggish or unreliable performance. Google didn’t disclose if the scanner’s performance had something to do with the device’s software or hardware. Many interpreted Google’s initial response implied that it was normal for the scanner to be slow in order for security features to work appropriately.

Now that Google has issued an update to users, chances are that the issue was software-related. According to the test carried out by The Verge on the performance of the Google smartphones. Findings have shown that the experiences with the fingerprint scanner after downloading the Pixel 6 update are better and improved.

Overall, the experiences from the performance of the Pixel 6 updates are a combination of mixed feelings. It feels like it has improved, but again it still doesn’t put it on par with fingerprint scanners from other companies like Samsung and Apple. Users who have reacted on Reddit have shown the same kind of varied results; while some agree that the update fixed the problem, others think otherwise while a few think the difference is only slightly. It still remains unclear if the update to the fingerprint scanner will be final or if Google has another one planned for. But then, the issue may have something to do with the fact that Google decided to use an under-the-screen optical scanner instead of an ultrasonic one — and as a result of that, Pixel 6 owners may continue to manage these issues. For now, as at the point of writing this article, the performance status for the sensor seems to be just good enough.