How to Fix a Malfunctioning Fingerprint Scanner on Your Pixel 9
Google’s latest Android update has caused some unexpected issues for a small group of Pixel phone users, particularly relating to the fingerprint scanner. Although updates typically enhance device functionality and security, some customers have reported that after the March update, their fingerprint readers became unresponsive, disrupting the use of this important feature.
Surveys and community discussions, like those on the GrapheneOS forums, indicate that this problem is quite rare, affecting roughly one in every 1,000 devices. Most users report that the update goes smoothly, with no adverse effects. However, for those unfortunate enough to experience the glitch, the fingerprint scanner may seem completely non-functional, as options related to it disappear from the device settings. This issue appears primarily with the Pixel 9 model and less so with the Pixel 9 Pro. There are also scattered reports from users with older devices like the Pixel 8 experiencing similar difficulties.
When the fingerprint scanner malfunctions, the phone behaves as if it does not have the tool at all. Users can try all sorts of settings adjustments, but nothing resolves the issue, leading to frustration. Fortunately, there’s a straightforward fix. Users have reported that shutting down the phone completely—rather than simply restarting it—often restores the fingerprint scanner functionality. This process involves turning the device off entirely, waiting a moment, and then turning it back on.
Some users have found that they may need to repeat this powering down and up procedure several times before the fingerprint scanner starts working again. While it’s a bit odd that this works, it has been a successful workaround for many.
Keeping your phone updated is crucial, as new updates typically patch security vulnerabilities and enhance the overall user experience. However, glitches like this one can cause temporary setbacks. The occasional hiccup in updates is not uncommon in technology, highlighting the importance of user feedback in refining software. Developers often rely on community reports to identify and fix these unexpected issues quickly.
If you’re affected by this glitch with your Pixel phone, don’t lose hope; the fix is simple enough to try at home. Just make sure to power off completely. This minor inconvenience serves as a reminder of how interconnected software and hardware are in modern devices and the occasional quirks they can exhibit following updates.
Overall, navigating through these issues can be part of owning a smartphone, and the best course of action often involves reaching out to forums or official support channels for assistance. Being aware of potential problems and knowing how to troubleshoot them can make the experience much smoother.
