If you own a Pixel 6 and need to replace the screen, you should be aware that the fingerprint sensor may stop working after the screen has been replaced. It's unclear how widespread the problem is, but it appears to be a software issue that Google has yet to address. And, unfortunately for the Pixel 6 series, Google has had to resolve a slew of issues since the phone's release in October.
When it comes to high-end smartphones, the Pixel 6 is unquestionably one of the highlights of 2021. It's a true Google flagship with a starting price of $599. It features a striking new design, a welcome camera hardware upgrade, and Google's first custom System-on-Chip (SoC). It's also the first Pixel to include a fingerprint sensor beneath the display. That is why the sensor functionality is linked to the screen replacement operation.
Unfortunately, the Pixel 6 phones have been beset by a slew of problems that Google has had to solve. Initially, the fingerprint sensor was untrustworthy. The phone then had charging issues as well as occasional signal loss.
Google resolved some of these Pixel 6 difficulties, but others arose in their place, such as the magic eraser troubles and Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
During this time, however, some Pixel 6 users reported that the fingerprint sensor stopped working following a screen replacement.
Repairs to the Pixel 6 screen and the fingerprint sensor
In a video, Rossmann Repair Group owner Louis Rossmann addressed the Pixel 6 display repair issue. He read through the different complaints from Pixel 6 users who had to replace their phone's display.
The repair activist mentioned many postings from discussions in which Pixel 6 customers complained of an unique software bug that makes it unable to use the Pixel 6 fingerprint sensor after a screen replacement.
Google provides a tool for repair businesses to utilise in order to calibrate the fingerprint sensor after a screen replacement. However, it appears that many people have had problems with it. The calibration tool is broken, and Google has yet to update it. Pixel 6 owners reported the issue in November, however there have been reports of difficulties with the fingerprint sensor following fixes.
Google appears to be aware of the issue, and a patch may be on the way. You should take great care of your Pixel 6 till then. Damage to the screen may result in loss of access to the fingerprint sensor, at least until Google resolves the calibration software concerns.