Google Pixel 9 Series Features Qualcomm’s 3D Sonic Gen 2 Fingerprint Sensor—Except for One Model

Google has officially unveiled its latest smartphones-the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold-bringing several enhancements over the previous year's models.

Among the upgrades is the integration of a new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, a technology that promises to address the shortcomings of previous Pixel generations.

A New Era for Pixel Fingerprint Sensors

Since the introduction of the "Tensor era," Google's Pixel devices have struggled with fingerprint sensors, often lagging behind other brands in terms of reliability and speed. The optical in-display fingerprint sensors used in the Pixel 8 series, while improved, still did not meet the performance standards set by competitors.

With the 2024 Pixel 9 series, Google has opted to replace the optical fingerprint reader with Qualcomm's 3D Sonic Gen 2 ultrasonic sensor. This sensor, also used in Samsung's flagship Galaxy devices, is touted as the "world's fastest ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor" by Qualcomm. According to Google, the new sensor is 50% faster than the one found in the Pixel 8 series, offering a significant boost in user experience.

How the Ultrasonic Sensor Works

The Qualcomm 3D Sonic Gen 2 sensor is a leap forward in fingerprint recognition technology. Unlike optical sensors, which use light to capture an image of the fingerprint, ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to create a 3D image of the fingerprint's ridges and valleys. This method not only enhances accuracy but also works reliably even if the user's fingers are wet, a common challenge for optical sensors.

Additionally, the 3D Sonic Gen 2 sensor incorporates anti-spoofing technology, which can detect and reject fake fingerprints created from photographs or molds. The sensor's dimensions-8x8mm-allow it to capture more detailed fingerprint data, further improving security and speed.

A Different Approach for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold

While the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL feature the in-display ultrasonic sensor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes a different route. This foldable device opts for a side-mounted fingerprint reader, utilizing a traditional capacitive sensor instead. Although this is a more conventional approach, it is well-suited to the foldable design of the device, ensuring reliable fingerprint recognition in various usage scenarios.

The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are available for pre-order now, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold will open for pre-orders on August 28.

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