Set up and use the fingerprint sensor on your Galaxy phone

Last Update date : Apr 10. 2024
Set up and use the fingerprint sensor on your Galaxy phone

No one in the world is quite like you, and no two fingerprints are exactly the same. That is why fingerprint security on Galaxy phones is so dependable. However, using the fingerprint scanner may be a little different based on which type of phone you have.

Note: Available screens and settings may vary by wireless service provider, software version, and phone model.

Depending on which Galaxy phone you have, the fingerprint scanner may be in a different location. Make sure you know the location before you start registering your prints.

  • Phones with an Ultrasonic in-display fingerprint reader: Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 series, Galaxy S20 series, Galaxy S10 series, Galaxy Note20 series, and Galaxy Note10 series.
  • Phones with an Optical in-display fingerprint reader: Galaxy A50, Galaxy A51, Galaxy A70, and Galaxy A71.
  • Phones with a fingerprint reader on the back: Galaxy A11, Galaxy A20, Galaxy A21, Galaxy S8 series, Galaxy S9 series, Galaxy Note8, and Galaxy Note9.
  • Phones with a fingerprint scanner on the Home key: Galaxy S6 series and Galaxy S7 series.
  • Phones with a fingerprint scanner on the Side key: Galaxy Fold, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy Z Fold2, and Galaxy Z Flip 5G.
  • Other locations for the fingerprint scanner: The Galaxy S10e has the scanner on the Power key.

Note: The Galaxy A10e and Galaxy A01 do not have fingerprint scanners.

It is time to set up fingerprint security and register your prints. The steps will be almost exactly the same, no matter what phone you have. The only difference will be where the fingerprint sensor is located on your Galaxy phone.

Navigate to Settings, then tap Biometrics and security, and then tap Fingerprints. Tap Continue, and then, if needed, set a screen lock. Use the on-screen prompts to register your fingerprint. When registering your fingerprint, make sure to fully cover the fingerprint sensor with your finger to prevent strong light from entering the fingerprint sensor. When you're finished, tap Done.

Set up and use fingerprint security

Next, make sure that the switch next to "Fingerprint unlock" is turned on.

Note: If the fingerprint sensor on your device is located on the Side key or below the Side key, such as on the GalaxyZ Fold2 and GalaxyZ Z Flip 5G, you can disable the Fingerprint always on option. This will prevent accidental unlocks.

To unlock your phone using your finger, tap the screen or press the Power key or Side key. Then, place the registered finger on the fingerprint scanner, wherever it is located. The phone will automatically unlock if it recognizes your fingerprint.

Keep in mind that when your phone is restarted or if your phone has not been used for more than 24 hours, you’ll need to use your PIN, password, or pattern instead of your fingerprint.

Note: Some phones may come with a pre-installed plastic screen protector designed to work with the in-screen sensor. Installing another screen protector may affect fingerprint recognition.

If your family or friends occasionally use your phone, register additional fingerprints so they can unlock it too. You can add up to four different fingerprints.

Add additional fingerprints

From Settings, tap Biometrics and security, and then tap Fingerprints. Enter your secure screen lock credentials. Tap Add fingerprint. Use the on-screen prompts to add the fingerprint, and then tap Done.

Although their fingerprint sensors are in different places, removing a fingerprint is exactly the same on all phones with Android 9.0 or higher.

From Settings, tap Biometrics and security, and then tap Fingerprints. Next, enter your security credentials. Tap the fingerprint you want to delete (e.g., Fingerprint 1), and then tap Remove. Next, tap Remove again to confirm.

Remove a fingerprint from your phone

Note: Removing all registered fingerprints will turn off the Fingerprint unlock feature by default.

If you are having trouble unlocking your phone because the fingerprint sensor isn't recognizing your prints, try entering your regular PIN, password, or pattern. If that still does not work, you can try remotely unlocking your phone using the Find My Mobile feature or another method.

If you are still unable to unlock your device, it may require service. You can contact us or request help from a Service centre.

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Contact Samsung Assistance at 1-800-SAMSUNG (726-7864)

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