Why does the fingerprint sensor sometimes not work on a smartphone?
Friends, you probably know that nearly every phone now comes with a fingerprint option. Just place your finger on the sensor, and the phone unlocks. However, you may have experienced times when unlocking with the fingerprint sensor becomes difficult—it simply doesn’t work, which can be quite frustrating. We often find ourselves saying, “Why did I even buy this phone if it can’t unlock?” and start showing frustration towards the phone, even attempting to restart it or tweaking settings.
In the end, not only does the phone remain the same, but we might end up messing with other settings, leading to regrets later on.
So, what should we do when faced with this situation? And how can we solve this problem? Let’s explore these questions in this article.
First Reason: Dry Skin
One common reason your phone’s screen doesn’t detect fingerprints is dry skin. Compared to soft, hydrated skin, dry skin produces a different electrical charge. This is why your phone’s touch screen works smoothly in summer but sometimes struggles in winter due to dry skin.
Second Reason: Swollen or Hardened Fingers
Swelling or hardened skin on fingers can also make it difficult for the fingerprint sensor to work. This issue is often found in people who play the guitar, do rock climbing, or perform tasks requiring hand craftsmanship. Activities like these can make fingers rough, causing trouble in unlocking the screen.
Third Reason: Device or Software Issue
Sometimes, the issue may be due to a malfunction in the device’s hardware or software, preventing the fingerprint scan from working correctly.
How to Solve This Problem
- If Skin is Dry
Apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Avoid applying any color, henna, or designs on the finger you use for unlocking your phone, as it can interfere with the software’s ability to scan your fingerprint. - Keep Your Finger Clean
Always keep the finger used to unlock the screen clean. Sometimes, touching the sensor with dirty can lead to buildup on the sensor, making it harder to detect fingerprints. Make sure to clean the fingerprint module regularly. - Reset Fingerprint
You can try resetting the fingerprint in your settings. Go to Settings > Biometrics and Security > Fingerprint options, and create a new fingerprint. This may resolve the problem. - Check the Sensor Module
Dropping your phone can sometimes damage or misalign the fingerprint module. If you notice the module is loose or cracked, have it repaired. - Register Two Fingerprints
It’s a good idea to register at least two different for unlocking. If one finger fails, you can try the other. Using a finger from the other hand can sometimes be even more effective.
By following these tips, you should be able to troubleshoot and improve the reliability of your phone’s fingerprint sensor.
