Google Pixel 9 leak shows ultrasonic fingerprints from Suprema and Qualcomm | Biometric update

The upcoming Google Pixel 9 series is expected to feature Qualcomm’s 3D Sonic Gen 2 ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, according to a leak from Android Authority’s Kamila Wojciechowska.

The fingerprint technology is the same as on the Samsung Galaxy S24, Wojciechowska says in a video describing the leak. The S24 features the Qualcomm sensor with Suprema algorithms for signal reading and matching. Suprema has provided its biometric algorithms for the Samsung Galaxy S series since 2019.

Qualcomm has also integrated Precise Biometrics’ BioMatch Mobile software, providing an additional layer of protection against fraud attempts, in 2021.

Google decided to replace the current optical scanner from Goodix with ultrasonic scanners after customer feedback highlighted problems with the current under-display fingerprint sensor, citing it as unreliable and slow.

The move represents a shift away from optical scanners, which rely on shining bright light on the fingerprint and can be more prone to performance reductions from moisture or dirt. By adopting Qualcomm 3D Sonic Gen 2, Google aims to address these challenges with improved sensor technology.

Although the performance of the biometric system relies on more factors than a single sensor, the improvement is expected to result in a better user experience.

The 3D Sonic Gen 2 fingerprint sensor uses ultrasonic pulses to map the ridges and valleys of a user’s fingerprint. By analyzing the reflections of these sound waves, the sensor creates a highly detailed 64 mm2 reproduction of the scanned fingerprint.

Although all Pixel 9 models are expected to feature the new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, the Fold will retain its capacitive fingerprint scanner inside the power button. Google has officially announced that the new series of phones will be presented on August 13.

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biometric | fingerprint biometrics | fingerprint sensors | Google | Qualcomm | Supreme | ultrasonic fingerprint | under the screen