8 Proven Ways to Fix Fingerprint Not Working Android

If you’re facing issues with your fingerprint scanner on Android, don’t worry! This comprehensive guide will explore 8 proven methods to fix fingerprints not working on Android, from simple troubleshooting steps to advanced solutions. You’ll see everything you need to get your fingerprint scanner working flawlessly again.

Author Avatar Joy Taylor Last Updated: Aug. 26, 2024

It’s a busy morning, and you’re rushing to get ready for the day. As you reach for your Android smartphone, eager to unlock it with the swipe of your finger, you are frustrated. The fingerprint scanner isn’t working! Panic sets in as you realize you might not be able to access your device.

But fear not! In this article, we will explore 8 reliable methods to fix the fingerprint not working Android problem, offering a fresh lease of life to this essential feature on your Android device. With the stage set, let’s start with the reasons behind the malfunctioning fingerprint scanner on our Android devices.

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Why Is Fingerprint Not Working on Android?

A clear insight into the reasons behind a malfunctioning fingerprint scanner is essential. Here are some common causes for the fingerprint not working on Android.

  • Outdated software: Outdated software is a common culprit for malfunctioning fingerprint scanners. Compatibility issues arise from using outdated Android versions, causing malfunctions.
  • Software glitches: Software glitches can cause fingerprint scanner issues, disrupting its smooth functioning, but a quick reboot or troubleshooting can resolve the problem.
  • Dirty scanner: The physical condition of the fingerprint scanner can impact its performance. Cleaning the scanner with a soft, lint-free cloth can help restore its functionality by removing the layer of grime.
  • Damaged scanner: Physical damage to the scanner, such as scratches or cracks, can impair its ability to accurately read fingerprints. Professional assistance may be required to address this issue.
  • Screen protector interference: Using a low-quality or misaligned screen protector can hinder the fingerprint scanner’s ability to scan your fingerprint, but removing the protector can enhance its performance.

These causes bring you one step closer to fixing your fingerprint scanner woes.

Now, let’s move on to the exciting part – how to unlock your device when the fingerprint isn’t working.

How to Unlock Device When Fingerprint Not Working Android

In the fast-paced world of technology, our Android devices surprise us with unexpected challenges. These curveballs can leave us feeling puzzled and frustrated. One such scenario is when the fingerprint scanner stops working, leaving us stranded without phone access. But, DroidKit – a one-stop Android solution that can save the day. It empowers users to regain access without a functional fingerprint scanner. So when your fingerprint doesn’t work on Android, directly using DroidKit you can unlock and re-enter your device only in minutes and 3 steps. And let’s uncover the more remarkable capabilities of DroidKit to unlock Android devices.

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Free Download

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Free Download * 100% Clean & Safe

  • Unlock all Android screen locks – In addition to fingerprints, DroidKit can also help you unlock other screen lock types, such as Face ID, 4-digit/6-digit password, pattern, PIN, etc.
  • No root required – No need to root your device at all. This can guarantee the security of your device and privacy to the greatest extent.
  • Only simple clicks – DroidKit has a user-friendly interface and operation. You only need to click the buttons to complete the unlock, and anyone can easily do it.
  • Cover all Android devices – Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Oneplus, etc., DroidKit can help you unlock all of them easily.

Furthermore, DroidKit is also the best solution for other Android problems, such as bypassing FRP lock, reinstalling Android OS, recovering lost data, fixing Android OS bugs, etc.

Now DrdoidKit is available on Windows and Mac, so just free download DroidKit on your computer. Then let’s discover how it effortlessly unlocks your Android device when fingerprint not working Android.

Step 1. Launch DroidKit on your computer. Link your Android device to your computer using a USB cable. Make sure to select the Screen Unlocker option and proceed.

Choose Screen Unlocker

Choose Screen Unlocker

Step 2. Click the Start button to prepare the configuration file specific to your device. Once the preparation process is finished, click Remove Now.

Click Remove Now Button

Click Remove Now Button

Step 3. Now Droidkit will ask you to put your device in recovery mode. Just follow the instructions from the DroidKit interface.

Finish Settings on Samsung

Finish Settings on Samsung

Step 4. Then, DroidKit will automatically begin removing the screen lock. After completing the removal process, simply click the Complete button. Voila! You can now access your Android device without entering any password.

Lock Screen Removal Completed

Lock Screen Removal Completed

Easy Ways to Fix Fingerprint Not Working Android

Now that we know the sense behind the fingerprint scanner issues. Let’s explore some proven methods to fix the problem and restore the functionality of your fingerprint scanner on Android.

Fix 1. Restart Your Device

A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches. These glitches may be affecting the functionality of your fingerprint scanner. Follow the steps to restart your device successfully.

  1. Press and hold the power button on your Android device.
  2. Then select the “Restart” option from the menu that appears.
  3. After the restart, check if the fingerprint scanner is working correctly.
Restart option

Restart option

Fix 2. Clean the Fingerprint Scanner

Accumulated dirt, dust, or oil on the fingerprint scanner can lead to recognition failures. Gently clean the scanner using a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth. Ensure your fingers are clean before attempting to use the scanner again.

Fix 3. Remove and Re-add Fingerprint

Sometimes re-registering your fingerprint can help resolve any inconsistencies in the fingerprint database. Here is the step-by-step guide to re-add your fingerprint data.

Step 1. Move to the “Settings” menu on your Android, and select “Lock screen.”

Step 2. Then choose “Fingerprint.”

Step 3. Delete the existing fingerprint data and re-register your fingerprint data.

Re-register Your Fingerprint Data

Re-register Your Fingerprint Data

Fix 4. Remove Screen Protector

Everybody uses a screen protector. But it’s worth removing it temporarily to check if it’s causing any interference with the fingerprint scanner.

Suppose the scanner starts working after removing the screen protector. Consider replacing it with a higher-quality one or repositioning it correctly.

Fix 5. Increase Touch Sensitivity

In some cases, adjusting the touch sensitivity settings can enhance the accuracy of the fingerprint scanner. Let’s explore how to enhance/increase touch sensitivity.

  1. Navigate to the “Settings” menu, select “Display,”.
  2. Then locate the “Touch sensitivity” option.
  3. Enable it and check if the fingerprint scanner performs better.
Enable Touch Sensitivity

Enable Touch Sensitivity

Fix 6. Wipe System Cache

Clearing the system cache on your Android device can cut residual files that may affect the fingerprint scanner. Follow the steps below in order to wipe the cache properly.

Step 1. Power off your Android device completely.

Step 2. Press and hold a specific combination of buttons to access the recovery mode, which can vary depending on the device model.

Step 3. Once in recovery mode, use the Volume buttons to navigate through the options, and the Power button to select.

Step 4. Select the “Wipe cache partition” option and confirm your selection when prompted.

Wipe Cache Partition

Wipe Cache Partition

Step 5. After the cache partition has been wiped, Use the volume buttons to highlight the “Reboot system now” option and press the Power button to confirm.

Fix 7. Update Android Software

Keeping your Android device updated is crucial for optimal performance and compatibility. So follow the guide to update any Android software.

  1. Move to the “Settings” menu, then scroll down to “Software update”.
  2. If an update is open, download and install it.
  3. This can often address known issues and bugs related to the fingerprint scanner.
Tap on Download and Install in Software Update

Tap on Download and Install in Software Update

Fix 8. Factory Reset Your Device

If all else fails and your fingerprint scanner is still not working, consider performing a factory reset as a last resort. Remember that this will obliterate all data on your device, so ensure you have a backup. To reset your device successfully:

Step 1. Move to the “Settings” menu.

Step 2. Then select “General management,” and then choose “Reset.”

Step 3. Track the on-screen instructions to perform a factory reset.

Select Factory data reset

Select Factory data reset

The Bottom Line

Dealing with fingerprint not working Android can be frustrating. But with the methods outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Remember to start with the most straightforward fixes. And if you need to unlock your Android device when the fingerprint doesn’t work, just get DroidKit for free to unlock your device in simple clicks. And then you can access your device and enjoy all the service of it immediately. Don’t forget to share this post and comment below!

Free Download

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* 100% Clean & Safe

Free Download * 100% Clean & Safe

Author Avatar
Joy Taylor Twitter Share Facebook Share

Senior writer of the iMobie team as well as an Apple fan, love to help more users solve various types of iOS & Android-related issues.

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