Samsung to Update Fingerprint Scanning on Galaxy S10
In response to complaints raised by some users of Galaxy S10 and S10+ models regarding its first in-display fingerprint scanner, Samsung on Thursday confirmed that a software upgrade will improve the scanner's performance.
The latest Galaxy S10 and S10+ devices feature ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanners powered by Qualcomm's technology. Some users questioned the function.
“There can be many occasions where users find the fingerprint scanner doesn’t work well, for example, when you are in a dry environment, or when your finger skin is really dry, or when you have a scratch on your fingerprint,” said a Samsung official.
“The accuracy has been improved through the first update of software recently just in one week since the launch, and we will continue providing updates to make the scanner work better.”
The in-display fingerprint scanner makes use of a high-frequency ultrasonic sound that users cannot hear. The sound waves map out the ridges, pores and other landmarks of the finger.
The ultrasonic sensor for fingerprint recognition can detect blood flow within the finger and actually prevent hackers from spoofing the device with a photo or mold, according to Qualcomm.
Meanwhile, Samsung is also working on making the entire front of its phones a screen, with no need for bezels or a camera cutout of any kind.
According to the company’s vice president of its display R&D group, Yang Byung-duk, “though it wouldn’t be possible to make (a full-screen smartphone) in the next 1-2 years, the technology can move forward to the point where the camera hole will be invisible, while not affecting the camera’s function in any way.”