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How to Fix Fingerprint Recognition That Won't Work

Tap each step to follow along in order.

  1. Clean the sensor and your finger

    Dirt, debris, or moisture on the fingerprint sensor β€” or a wet finger β€” can seriously hurt recognition accuracy, so wipe both dry with a soft cloth first.

  2. Re-register your fingerprint

    Delete your existing fingerprint in Settings and register it again, placing your finger at a few different angles β€” this often improves recognition.

  3. Check your screen protector

    For under-display fingerprint sensors, a thick or incompatible screen protector can interfere with recognition β€” try removing it or switching to one made specifically for fingerprint sensors.

  4. Update your software

    Updating to the latest operating system version sometimes fixes bugs related to biometric recognition as well.

  5. Use an alternative unlock method

    If recognition still isn't working, unlock temporarily with a passcode or pattern, and get the device checked by a service center if the problem persists.

Weather and the condition of your hand can both affect it

Fingerprint recognition is affected by factors like moisture, temperature, and cuts or scrapes on your finger. If recognition suddenly stops working well, try the steps above in order.

General information, not a substitute for a hardware check

The steps here address the most common software- and cleanliness-related causes. If your finger is injured, unusually dry from cold weather, or the sensor itself seems physically damaged, these steps may only offer a temporary workaround β€” a service center visit is the more reliable fix in that case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't recognition work well when my hands are too dry or too wet?

Fingerprint sensors work by detecting subtle electrical signals or the ridges in your skin, so recognition becomes difficult when your finger is unusually dry or wet.

Does registering multiple fingers actually help?

Yes β€” registering a few fingers, like your thumb and index finger, means you can try a different one whenever one isn't being recognized well, which is convenient.