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Pixel 6a wins against Pixel 6 Pro in fingerprint unlocking test

We're glad Google's mid-ranger is better than its flagship, at least in this aspect.
By
June 27, 2022
Google Pixel 6a fingerprint unlock
TL;DR
  • A new video shows that the fingerprint sensor on the Pixel 6a is noticeably faster than the one on the Pixel 6 Pro.
  • The test was conducted on an early unit of the Pixel 6a, not running the final software.

The fingerprint sensor on the Pixel 6 series is perhaps its most criticized feature. Some users say the in-display fingerprint sensor Google uses is too slow, while others complain of poor recognition. The Pixel 6a also features an in-display fingerprint sensor, and it looks like this one is much improved compared to what Google’s current flagships offer.

A video comparing the fingerprint sensor on the Pixel 6a and Pixel 6 Pro shows the former is much faster than the latter. The video comes from YouTuber Fazil Halim, who obtained an early Pixel 6a unit sold by a Malaysian reseller. It should be noted that the device is not running the final software that Google will offer once the phone is officially released next month.

In the video, we see Halim press the fingerprint sensor on both the Pixel 6 Pro and the Pixel 6a in quick succession. The Pixel 6a appears to unlock more times than the 6 Pro. Google previously confirmed that the upcoming mid-ranger uses a newer fingerprint sensor compared to the Pixel 6 series. It seems the change is working in Google’s favor. We’re hoping Google also uses the improved sensor on the upcoming Pixel 7 series.

You can check out the video testing the Pixel 6a’s fingerprint sensor below. It’s all cued up at the right spot (h/t 9to5Google), so just hit play and watch.