Google Pixel 6a could fix the Pixel 6 fingerprint scanner problem

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The Google Pixel 6a is using a different sensor to the Pixel 6

Google Pixel 6a reveal at IO 2022
(Image credit: Google)

Update: The Google Pixel 6a has a big problem in the form of the Pixel 6.

Although the Google Pixel 6a is meant to be a cheaper version of the Google Pixel 6, it could end up improving on one particularly irritating aspect of the original Pixel 6: its sluggish under-display fingerprint sensor.

In some ways, Google may have been better off keeping the Pixel 5a's rear-mounted fingerprint scanner. Yes, it's a bit old-fashioned but having the sensor exposed rather than buried under the display meant it was super reliable.

The Pixel 6a's not arriving until July 28, so it's going to be a little while before we get to try out the sensor and compare its speeds with the Pixel 6 and other phones. Also, the Pixel 6a will get an older camera and not the flagship ones on the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. But we are looking forward to seeing how well the flagship-grade Google Tensor chip performs in a non-flagship phone, and if its photography, enhanced by features like Magic Eraser, can put it among the best camera phones.

Richard Priday
Richard Priday
Assistant Phones Editor

Richard is based in London, covering news, reviews and how-tos for phones, tablets, gaming, and whatever else people need advice on. Following on from his MA in Magazine Journalism at the University of Sheffield, he's also written for WIRED U.K., The Register and Creative Bloq. When not at work, he's likely thinking about how to brew the perfect cup of specialty coffee.