I had two Samsung flagship phones, one (S20FE) had an optical fingerprint reader and the other (S22) had an ultrasonic one. Both of them somewhat regularly failed to read my finger, were slower than a fingerprint reader on the power button and are more expensive/complex to build. They won’t work with cheap 3rd party screen replacements and some screen protectors as well.

Meanwhile my $90 Android phone has a fingerprint reader on the power button. It never fails and I never have to perfectly place my finger on the sensor area to get it to work. It just seems like the perfect place to put a fingerprint sensor, so why do phone manufacturers keep using in-display fingerprint readers over the cheaper alternative?

  • xmunk@sh.itjust.works
    346·
    2 months ago

    Power buttons are often covered by cases and, since they’re usually a weak spot for water proofing, it’s more effective to have a case that fully covers the button. In-screen readers (like what I have on my Samsung A71) tend to be good enough most of the time.

    • sushibowl@feddit.nl
      8·
      2 months ago

      It really depends on the sensor tech. The fingerprint reader in my pixel 7 pro is absolute dogshit. I’ve heard the pixel 9 line improves things though.

      • lemmyng@lemmy.caEnglish
        11·
        2 months ago

        Pixel 8 user here - the in-display fingerprint reader is fine, as long as my finger isn’t super dry (which happens regularly). So I’m regularly licking my finger to unlock the device like some boomer that’s used to doing it from turning pages in a book.

      • halcyoncmdr@lemmy.worldEnglish
        5·
        2 months ago

        My Pixel 6 never could read my right thumb, maybe 2% of the time. You know, the one used 99% of the time by a right handed person.

        My Pixel 9 Pro Fold with the sensor in the power button has worked 99% of the time so far with all registered fingers in all manner of grips. Almost too good honestly, since it unlocks sometimes accidentally when picking it up.

        That said, the rear sensor was still the best placement.

      • Dave@lemmy.nz
        2·
        2 months ago

        I have a Pixel 7 Pro and have never had an issue. I don’t have a screen protector on, if that makes a difference.

          • Dave@lemmy.nz
            3·
            2 months ago

            When I got the phone I also got one of the glass screen protectors, which was advertised as being extra thin for good touch sensitivity.

            I shattered it trying to peel the plastic backing off, and never got around to getting a new one.

            That one you linked looks like it would suit someone like me a bit better.