Use fingerprint security

Set up fingerprint security

Use the fingerprint sensor to unlock your phone, make fast and secure online and in-store purchases, and sign into bank and finance apps.

  1. Go to Settings > Security & location.

  2. Touch Fingerprint, then unlock your phone.

  3. Follow the onscreen instructions to scan your fingerprint using the sensor on the back of your phone.

Fingerprints are stored securely on the phone.

Add more fingerprints

Keep in mind that:

  • If multiple users share the phone, users should add their fingerprints from within their user profile, instead of adding multiple fingerprints to your owner profile.
  • Anyone whose fingerprints are added to a user profile can unlock the phone and authorize purchases with the associated Google account or apps.

Add a fingerprint for each finger you want to use with the sensor:

  1. Go to Settings > Security & location.
  2. Touch Fingerprint and enter your pattern, PIN, or password to verify your identity.
  3. Touch Add fingerprint.
  4. Use the fingerprint sensor to scan another fingerprint.
  5. Rename each fingerprint. Touch the current name, type a name, and touch OK.

Remove a fingerprint

  1. Go to Settings > Security & location.
  2. Touch Fingerprint and enter your pattern, PIN, or password to verify your identity.
  3. Touch next to the fingerprint.

Use fingerprint to unlock phone

To wake and unlock your screen, or any time you see on the screen, touch the sensor to verify your identity.

TipYou can temporarily tighten security by turning off fingerprint unlocking and lock screen notifications with Lockdown mode.

Use fingerprint to sign in to apps

To use the fingerprint sensor with third-party apps:

  • Be sure the app supports fingerprint recognition.
  • Install the app and open its settings to adjust options, like enabling fingerprint unlock.
  • Consult the app's help info for more instructions.

Why am I still asked for PIN/pattern?

For maximum security, you still need to enter your pattern, PIN, or password:

  • Every time you power up your phone
  • When more than 72 hours have passed since you last unlocked the phone
  • When you go to Settings > Security & location > Fingerprint
  • When the sensor can’t read the fingerprint

Fix an issue

Issue: Sometimes the sensor can’t read my fingerprints.

Each finger has a unique print. If you’ve added only one fingerprint, add more for other fingers you want to use with the sensor.

The sensor may have trouble reading fingerprints if your finger is:

  • Wet
  • Oily
  • Dirty
  • Injured

If a registered fingerprint isn't working as expected, remove and re-add the fingerprint. If your finger is injured, add fingerprints for your other fingers and use them until healed.

Issue: Fingerprint option disappeared from Security & location menu.

After each troubleshooting step, check to see if your issue is fixed.

  1. Turn your phone off and then on again.
  2. Check if a software update is available for your phone.

  3. Check for app updates.

    Open the Play Store app, then touch your profile icon > My apps & games.

  4. Use safe mode to see if apps you installed are causing the issue and uninstall as needed.

    If the sensor works correctly in safe mode, a 3rd party app is probably causing the issue. These apps can cause issues: lock screen apps, app locks that use the fingerprint sensor, RAM boosters, and RAM cleaners.

  5. Reset the phone.