**Google Pixel Phones to Receive Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock Feature with Android 16**

All **Google Pixel** smartphones will soon enable **Fingerprint Unlock** functionality even while the screen is off, courtesy of the forthcoming **Android 16 update**.

As reported by **Android Authority**, this capability was observed in **Android 16 Beta 3** and will be accessible to **Pixel 6 and later models**, not limited to the most recent **Pixel 9**.

The introduction of Fingerprint Unlock took place with the **Pixel 6**, but previously, the display needed to be activated for the sensor to engage. Google first rolled out **screen-off Fingerprint Unlock** in the **Android 16 developer preview** for the **Pixel 9**, but a recent beta update indicates that all Pixels equipped with a fingerprint sensor will offer this feature. This likely encompasses all iterations of the **Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8**, as well as their respective **”a” series** counterparts. Android Authority has verified that the feature is operational on both the **Pixel 6a** and the **Pixel 7**.

### How to Activate Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock

For those on **Android 16 Beta 3**, you can enable this feature by following these instructions:

1. Open **Settings**
2. Navigate to **Security & privacy**
3. Select **Device unlock**
4. Tap on **Face & Fingerprint Unlock**
5. Choose **Fingerprint Unlock**
6. Toggle on **Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock**

Once activated, you’ll be able to unlock your Pixel with a fingerprint even when the screen is inactive, enhancing the overall experience and convenience.

### When Is Android 16 Set to Launch?

If you’re not currently using the beta version, the official release won’t be far off. Per the information from the **Android Developers Blog**, **Android 16** is anticipated to debut in **Q2 2025**, which suggests it could be available anytime from **April to June**.