The latest update to Android 16 Beta 4 focuses primarily on fixing bugs, but it has also reportedly removed a convenient feature for Pixel users. Following the update, many users have noticed that the “Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock” toggle is missing from their devices.
Although the feature still functions on some models, there are concerns that Google may disable it entirely in the stable release of Android 16 later this year. Google’s move towards a stable launch seems to have reached a significant milestone with the fourth beta release, which offers mainly bug fixes.
However, the unintended removal of features in this latest build has raised eyebrows among Pixel owners. After upgrading, I noticed the absence of the “Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock” feature on my Pixel 8 Pro, while it remained accessible on another Pixel 8 device running an earlier beta version.
Initially introduced with Android 16 DP2 on the Pixel 9, the screen-off fingerprint unlock feature allows users to unlock their devices even when the display is off. This functionality streamlines unlocking by reducing unnecessary steps, making it similar to the performance seen in other Android devices from brands like Samsung and OnePlus.
Despite the missing toggle, the good news is that the feature continues to work. Users can simply place their finger on the scanner to unlock their phones if their fingerprint is recognized.
If you find the feature is not working, a simple restart of the device may resolve the issue. The main concern going forward is whether Google will eliminate this feature altogether in the final release of Android 16.
The removal of the toggle means users who did not have the feature enabled prior to the update may find themselves unable to access it. As we await the stable release in June, it remains unclear what Google’s final decision regarding this feature will be.
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