Have you ever seen someone unlock their phone by simply placing a finger on the screen? It looks pretty cool. Instead of searching for a fingerprint button on the back or side of the phone, they just touch a small fingerprint icon on the display, and the phone unlocks within seconds.
The first time you see this feature, you might wonder whether it is something you can activate on your own Android phone.
Well, the answer depends on your device.
Many modern Android smartphones come with an in-display fingerprint sensor. Some use optical technology, while others use ultrasonic technology. Both allow users to unlock their phones by touching a specific area of the display.
In this guide, I'll explain how to set Display Fingerprint Lock on an Android phone in 2026, how to register your fingerprint, and how to check whether your device supports this feature.
I'll also explain what you can do if your phone has a fingerprint scanner on the back or side instead of inside the screen.
Let's get started!
What Is Display Fingerprint Lock on Android?
Display Fingerprint Lock is a security feature that allows you to unlock a compatible smartphone by placing your registered finger on a specific area of its screen.
Unlike older fingerprint scanners, which were commonly placed on the back or power button, an in-display fingerprint scanner is located underneath the display.
When you touch the fingerprint area, the phone reads your fingerprint and checks whether it matches the one saved on your device.
If the fingerprint matches, your phone unlocks.
There are two common types of in-display fingerprint technology.
1. Optical Fingerprint Scanner
An optical fingerprint scanner uses light and a small camera-like sensor underneath the screen to capture an image of your fingerprint.
When you place your finger on the marked area, the display may briefly illuminate to help the sensor read your fingerprint.
This technology is commonly found in many mid-range Android smartphones.
2. Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanner
An ultrasonic fingerprint scanner uses sound waves to identify the details of your fingerprint.
Instead of relying on a normal image, it creates a detailed reading of the fingerprint's surface.
Some premium smartphones use this technology because it can offer convenient fingerprint recognition, including in certain conditions where optical sensors may struggle.
First, Check Whether Your Android Phone Supports Display Fingerprint Lock
Before changing any settings, check your phone's hardware.
This is important because not every Android phone supports an in-display fingerprint scanner.
For example:
Some Samsung Galaxy models have fingerprint sensors underneath the screen.
Many Xiaomi and Redmi models offer in-display fingerprint sensors.
Selected Vivo and Oppo smartphones also support this feature.
Some Motorola and Google Pixel phones have display fingerprint sensors.
However, the availability depends on the exact model.
Important: If your phone only has a fingerprint scanner on the back or side, you cannot convert it into an in-display fingerprint scanner by installing an application.
A software application may display a fingerprint animation, but it cannot create a real hardware fingerprint sensor.
How to Set Display Fingerprint Lock on Android Phone
If your smartphone has an in-display fingerprint scanner, follow these steps.
Step 1: Open Your Phone Settings
First, unlock your smartphone using your current PIN, password, or pattern.
Now open the Settings application.
You can find it on your home screen or inside the app drawer.
Step 2: Open Security and Privacy Settings
Scroll through the settings menu and find the security option.
Depending on your phone, it may have a different name:
Security and privacy
Passwords and security
Biometrics and security
Fingerprint and face unlock
Lock screen and security
Tap the relevant option.
Step 3: Find Fingerprint Unlock
Now look for an option called Fingerprint, Fingerprint Unlock, or Fingerprint Recognition.
Tap it to continue.
Your phone may ask you to enter your existing screen lock password, PIN, or pattern.
This is a normal security step.
Step 4: Set a PIN, Password, or Pattern
If you haven't already created a screen lock, your phone will ask you to set one.
Choose a secure PIN, password, or pattern.
I recommend using a PIN of at least six digits rather than an easy combination such as 123456 or your date of birth.
This backup lock is important because your phone may occasionally require it instead of fingerprint recognition.
Step 5: Add Your Fingerprint
After setting your backup lock, select Add Fingerprint or Register Fingerprint.
Your phone will display instructions showing where to place your finger.
On an in-display fingerprint phone, this is usually near the lower part of the screen.
Step 6: Scan Your Fingerprint Properly
Place your finger over the fingerprint area.
Follow the instructions displayed on your screen.
Usually, you need to:
Place the centre of your finger on the sensor.
Lift your finger when instructed.
Touch the sensor again.
Slightly adjust your finger position.
Repeat until the phone completes registration.
Don't press too hard. Just follow the pressure instructions shown by your phone.
Step 7: Complete Fingerprint Registration
After scanning your fingerprint successfully, tap Done or Finish.
Your fingerprint is now registered.
If your device provides a Fingerprint Unlock switch, make sure it is enabled.
Step 8: Test Your Display Fingerprint Lock
Now lock your phone.
Wake the display and look for the fingerprint icon.
Place your registered finger on the indicated area.
If everything is working correctly, your smartphone should unlock.
That's it!
You have successfully configured Display Fingerprint Lock on your compatible Android phone.
How to Set Display Fingerprint Lock on Samsung Phones
Samsung Galaxy phones have different fingerprint sensor locations depending on the model.
Many Galaxy S series and selected Galaxy A series phones support in-display fingerprint recognition.
Here is the general setup process:
Open Settings.
Tap Security and privacy.
Open the Lock screen or Biometrics section, depending on your software version.
Select Fingerprints.
Enter your existing PIN, pattern, or password.
Tap Continue or Add fingerprint.
Follow the instructions to register your fingerprint.
Enable Fingerprint Unlock if necessary.
Now lock your phone and test the sensor.
Tip: Samsung's Android 16 and One UI 8 fingerprint registration process may use a swipe-style method on supported devices. Follow the instructions displayed on your particular phone.
For more information, visit Samsung's official fingerprint support guide.
How to Set Display Fingerprint Lock on Redmi and Xiaomi Phones
If you have a Redmi or Xiaomi smartphone, you can usually find fingerprint settings under Passwords and security.
Follow these steps:
Open Settings.
Tap Passwords and security.
Select Fingerprint unlock.
Enter your current screen lock password.
Tap Add fingerprint.
Place your finger on the fingerprint sensor.
Follow the instructions until registration is complete.
Test your fingerprint.
The exact location of the sensor depends on your model.
Some Xiaomi and Redmi devices have an in-display sensor, while others use a side-mounted scanner.
If you want more useful smartphone customization ideas, visit GamingStudio4U Android Tips and Tricks.
How to Set Display Fingerprint Lock on Vivo and Oppo Phones
Vivo and Oppo offer different fingerprint security options across their smartphone ranges.
The settings may vary depending on the model and software version.
Vivo Phones
Try the following steps:
Open Settings.
Find Security or Fingerprint, Face and Password.
Tap Fingerprint.
Enter your existing screen lock credentials.
Select Add Fingerprint.
Place your finger on the indicated sensor area.
Follow the instructions and complete registration.
Oppo Phones
On compatible Oppo smartphones:
Open Settings.
Go to Password and security or Security and privacy.
Select Fingerprint.
Enter your PIN or password.
Tap Add Fingerprint.
Scan your finger using the sensor.
Save the fingerprint.
Some models may also provide fingerprint animation styles and other visual customization options.
Remember that these features are not available on every Vivo or Oppo smartphone.
How to Set Display Fingerprint Lock on Google Pixel Phones
Google Pixel phones also offer fingerprint security, although the sensor location depends on the model.
For example, Pixel 6 and later standard Pixel phones have an in-display fingerprint sensor, while Pixel Fold models use a side-mounted sensor.
Follow these steps on a compatible Pixel phone:
Open Settings.
Tap Security and privacy.
Select Device unlock.
Tap Fingerprint.
Enter your PIN, pattern, or password if requested.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Scan your fingerprint.
Complete the setup.
You can also register additional fingers if you want to unlock your phone using either hand.
Google provides an official guide here:
Set up a fingerprint with your Pixel phone.
How to Change Display Fingerprint Animation
Some Android phones allow users to customize the animation that appears when they touch the fingerprint scanner.
For example, you may find different animation styles, glowing effects, or fingerprint icons.
To check whether your phone supports this feature:
Open Settings.
Go to Fingerprint settings.
Enter your screen lock credentials.
Look for Fingerprint Animation or Animation Style.
Choose one of the available options.
Save your selection.
Not every Android smartphone provides animation customization.
Also, changing the fingerprint animation does not change the actual fingerprint scanning technology.
How to Fix Display Fingerprint Lock Not Working
Sometimes your phone may fail to recognize your fingerprint.
It can be frustrating, especially when you're in a hurry and the phone keeps asking for your PIN.
Here are some practical solutions.
1. Clean Your Finger and Screen
Dirt, sweat, oil, and moisture can affect fingerprint recognition.
Clean the sensor area gently with a soft, clean cloth.
Also make sure your finger is dry before scanning it.
2. Register Your Fingerprint Again
If your phone regularly fails to recognize your finger, try deleting the old fingerprint and registering it again.
During registration, scan the centre, edges, and tips of your finger as instructed.
This can improve recognition.
3. Check Your Screen Protector
Some thick or incompatible screen protectors can interfere with in-display fingerprint recognition.
If you recently installed a new screen protector and the scanner stopped working, it may be the reason.
Use a screen protector recommended for your phone model.
Some compatible phones also provide a screen protector mode or increased touch sensitivity setting.
4. Restart Your Smartphone
A temporary software issue may affect fingerprint recognition.
Restart your phone and test the sensor again.
5. Update Your Android Software
Manufacturers sometimes release software updates that improve fingerprint performance and fix security-related bugs.
Open Settings and check for available system updates.
Install updates from your phone's official software update section.
6. Check Fingerprint Settings
Make sure fingerprint unlocking is still enabled.
If you recently changed your screen lock, updated your phone, or reset some settings, you may need to configure fingerprint recognition again.
7. Contact an Authorized Service Centre
If the fingerprint option has disappeared or the sensor no longer responds, there may be a hardware or software problem.
Contact the manufacturer's authorized service centre rather than installing unknown fingerprint repair applications.
Useful Tips to Make Fingerprint Unlock Work Better
Here are a few simple habits that can make your fingerprint experience more convenient.
Register the same finger carefully from different angles.
Add another finger as a backup if your phone allows it.
Keep the display and fingerprint area clean.
Avoid extremely thick or incompatible screen protectors.
Don't register someone else's fingerprint unless you trust them with access to your phone.
Remember your backup PIN or password.
Keep your phone's software updated.
One thing I would recommend is registering both thumbs if you usually hold your phone with either hand. It can save time when unlocking your device.
Can You Get Display Fingerprint Lock Using an App?
This is a common question.
You may find many applications on Google Play Store that claim to offer fingerprint lock screens or fingerprint animations.
However, there is an important difference between a real fingerprint sensor and a visual fingerprint effect.
A real in-display fingerprint scanner requires compatible hardware installed inside the smartphone.
An application cannot turn an ordinary display into a real fingerprint scanner.
Some apps can display a fingerprint icon or simulate a lock screen, but this does not provide the same hardware-backed security as your phone's built-in fingerprint system.
For protecting personal photos, banking apps, messages, and other private information, always use the official fingerprint security feature supported by your smartphone.
For additional Android guides and useful mobile tips, you can explore GamingStudio4U.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I set display fingerprint lock on my Android phone?
Open Settings, find Security and privacy or Passwords and security, select Fingerprint Unlock, create a backup PIN or password, and register your fingerprint.
2. Can I use display fingerprint lock on any Android phone?
No. Your smartphone needs compatible in-display fingerprint hardware. Phones with only a rear or side-mounted scanner cannot use the screen as a real fingerprint sensor.
3. Can I install an app to get an in-display fingerprint scanner?
No. An application can simulate fingerprint graphics, but it cannot add a genuine fingerprint sensor to a phone that doesn't have the required hardware.
4. Why is my fingerprint option missing?
Your phone may not have a fingerprint sensor, or there may be a software or hardware issue. Check your exact model's specifications and update your device if necessary.
5. Does display fingerprint lock work without internet?
Yes. Normal fingerprint unlocking works locally on supported smartphones and does not require an internet connection.
6. Can I register two fingerprints on my Android phone?
Yes. Many Android phones allow multiple fingerprints. The maximum number depends on the device and manufacturer.
7. Is an in-display fingerprint scanner secure?
It is a useful security feature, especially when combined with a strong PIN or password. However, no unlocking method is perfect. Keep your backup credentials private.
8. Why does my fingerprint sensor work slowly?
Possible reasons include a dirty screen, incorrect finger placement, an incompatible screen protector, or software issues. Clean the display and register your fingerprint again.
9. Can I change the fingerprint icon on my lock screen?
Some Android manufacturers offer fingerprint icon and animation customization. Check your phone's fingerprint settings to see which options are available.
10. Does the display fingerprint scanner work when the screen is off?
This depends on your phone model. Some devices show the fingerprint icon on the always-on display, while others require you to wake the screen first.
Final Thoughts
Setting up Display Fingerprint Lock on an Android phone is not difficult once you know where to find the correct settings.
If your phone supports an in-display fingerprint sensor, you can register your finger, enable fingerprint unlocking, and enjoy a convenient way to access your device.
However, don't waste time installing random applications that promise to turn an ordinary screen into a real fingerprint scanner. That feature requires dedicated hardware.
The best approach is to use your phone's built-in fingerprint security settings and keep a strong backup PIN or password.
If you enjoy learning new Android features, smartphone tricks, and useful technology guides, keep visiting GamingStudio4U for more helpful articles.
Have a question about your phone's fingerprint settings? Share your smartphone model in the comments, and we'll help you find the correct steps.
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