Pixel fingerprint sensor not working? Here’s what to try

⚡ Fast fix

• Clean your finger and sensor. Wipe both dry to remove smudges and dirt.
• Remove your screen protector. Thick plastic or glass can interfere with fingerprint recognition.
• Re-enroll your fingerprints. Fresh scans might work better.
• Still not working? You may need a professional repair if the screen was damaged or replaced.

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Your Google Pixel™ fingerprint sensor knows your finger. At least, it’s supposed to. When a quick tap turns into tap, tap, PIN, something clearly isn’t working the way it should.

Asurion Experts have the know-how to help with all your tech needs, from everyday software issues to common Google Pixel problems. Before giving up on the sensor, here are a few tips to get fingerprint unlock working reliably again.

Why is my Pixel fingerprint sensor not working?

You pick up your phone to fire off a quick text, but instead you see "fingerprint not recognized." Did you somehow break your Google Pixel fingerprint sensor? Not necessarily.

There are plenty of reasons why your device might stop recognizing your fingerprint, including:

• A dirty sensor.
• Moisture on the screen or your finger.
• Poorly registered fingerprints.
• An incompatible screen protector.
• Faulty biometric settings.
• A software bug.
• Hardware damage, such as a cracked screen.

You may also run into this issue after updating your Android™ system or replacing your screen.

How to fix a Pixel fingerprint sensor that's not working

Don't rush to send your phone to a repair shop. Start with the simplest fixes before trying more disruptive troubleshooting steps. Often, a quick clean or redoing your biometric authentication is all it takes to get your fingerprint unlock working again.

Clean and dry the sensor and your finger

Fingerprint recognition is sensitive, and dirt, moisture, or even a mysterious residue from lunch can interfere with it.

Start by washing your hands thoroughly and drying them with a towel. Then clean the fingerprint sensor and display area with a slightly damp cloth or a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe. Dry the screen and test the fingerprint unlock again.

Remove and re-enroll your fingerprints

The skin on your fingertips can change, or your phone may never have captured a good scan in the first place. Follow these steps to re-enroll your fingerprints:

1. Open the Settings app and tap Security & privacy.
2. Tap Device unlock > Fingerprint & Face Unlock or Fingerprint.
3. Enter your PIN to verify your identity.
4. Delete your fingerprint by tapping the trash icon.
5. Tap Add fingerprint.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your finger. Be sure to capture different parts and angles of the finger to make it easier for the sensor to detect it.

Check your screen protector settings

A thick or incompatible screen protector could prevent your Pixel 9 fingerprint sensor from reading your finger correctly.

Some Pixel models have Screen protector mode, which increases touchscreen sensitivity. Here's how to enable it:

1. In the Settings app, tap Display & touch.
2. Tap Touch Sensitivity > Screen protector mode.

You could also remove the screen protector and test whether your fingerprint sensor works better without it.

Restart and update your Google Pixel

Outdated or buggy software could be why your fingerprint sensor isn't responding. Try restarting your device to clear temporary software bugs:

1. Press and hold the Power and Volume Up buttons for a few seconds.
2. Tap Restart.

If a bug is affecting fingerprint recognition, Android may have already released a patch. After your phone reboots, follow these steps to update your Google Pixel:

1. Open Settings and tap System.
2. Tap Software updates to check for pending updates.
3. If a new update is available, tap Download and install.

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What to do if your fingerprint sensor stops working after a screen replacement

If your fingerprint sensor seems inconsistent or stops working after a screen replacement, the sensor may not have been configured properly. There could also be an issue with the new display or other hardware.

Try re-enrolling your fingerprints first. If that doesn't work, take the phone back to your repair provider to check the display and fingerprint sensor.

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When does a Pixel fingerprint sensor need repair?

In some cases, fingerprint recognition issues could be hardware-related. You may need professional help if your sensor still doesn't work after you've:

• Cleaned the screen and re-enrolled your fingerprints.
• Removed the screen protector.
• Restarted and updated the Android system.

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FAQ

Why does my Pixel say “Fingerprint not recognized”?

Your Pixel may show this message if it can’t get a clear read of your fingerprint. Try cleaning and drying your finger and the sensor, or place your finger at a different angle.

Can I add the same fingerprint twice on a Google Pixel?

Yes, you can add more scans of the same finger on your Pixel. Sometimes, more scans make it easier for the phone to recognize your print, especially if you capture different angles and parts of your fingertip during setup.

Why did my fingerprint option disappear on my Pixel?

If the fingerprint setting disappears entirely, restart your Pixel and check for Android updates. If it’s still missing, reach out to a pro for an expert diagnosis, especially if you recently repaired or replaced the screen.

Can a cracked screen stop the Pixel fingerprint sensor from working?

Yes. Many Pixel models use an under-display fingerprint sensor, so even a small crack in the wrong place could interfere with fingerprint recognition. If the problem started after your screen cracked or was replaced, have a professional check the display and sensor.