Pixel 9a Finally Receives A Long-missing Unlock Feature

Some Pixel 9a users, like yours truly, have noticed something interesting after the last update. A recent report mentioned that the device was graced with an unlock option that was previously absent.

To give a little context, Google’s smartphones often receive useful updates over time, but not every feature reaches every model. When a device misses out initially, it is often assumed that the feature will never arrive. However, new user reports indicate that one such feature may now be appearing on the Pixel 9a.

According to a post shared on Reddit, at least one Pixel 9a user has discovered a “screen-off fingerprint unlock” option within the phone’s settings. This feature allows users to unlock their device using the fingerprint sensor without first activating the display. In practice, this means the fingerprint sensor remains active even when the screen is turned off, offering a faster and more seamless unlocking experience.

Does anyone notice that you can finally unlock your phone with fingerprint while the screen off on March update ?
byu/Intelligent-Trip-882 inpixel_phones

The original post included a screenshot showing the toggle located within the fingerprint settings menu. Several other users in the discussion also claimed to have access to the feature. However, most did not specify their exact device models, making it unclear how widespread the availability is among Pixel 9a users.

Despite being released after the main Pixel 9 lineup, the Pixel 9a did not initially receive this functionality when it was reintroduced to newer Pixel devices through Android 16 updates.

At the time, it was speculated that the omission might be due to hardware differences. The Pixel 9 series uses ultrasonic fingerprint scanners, while the Pixel 9a relies on an optical sensor, which may be less effective when the display is off.

Do you have a Pixel 9a and did you notice this new feature? Make sure to drop a comment telling us what your user experience has been so far.

Filed in Cellphones. Read more about Google.