Removing the Screen Protector May Improve Fingerprint Sensor Reliability
In many cases, removing the screen protector can help improve the reliability of the fingerprint sensor on smartphones:
- If the screen protector is not properly installed or is incompatible with the fingerprint sensor, it can interfere with the sensor's ability to accurately read fingerprints[1][3][4]. Removing the screen protector in these cases often resolves the issue.
- Even if the screen protector is compatible, over time it can accumulate dirt, oil, and scratches which can degrade the sensor's performance. Replacing the screen protector with a new one may help[5].
- Some users have reported that the fingerprint sensor works better without any screen protector at all, even the factory installed one[2]. The sensor may be more reliable when directly contacting the screen.
However, removing the screen protector leaves the screen vulnerable to scratches and cracks. It's a tradeoff between screen protection and fingerprint sensor reliability.
If you do decide to remove the screen protector, make sure to re-register your fingerprints after doing so for optimal performance[3]. And look for a high-quality screen protector certified to work with your phone's fingerprint sensor if you want the best of both worlds[6].
Citations:[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/galaxynote10/comments/fygq8d/if_youre_using_screen_protector_and_having/
[2] https://forums.androidcentral.com/threads/fingerprint-reader-reliability-took-a-dump-after-screen-replacement.980929/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxFRIPOVceA
[4] https://xdaforums.com/t/cannot-get-fingerprint-scanner-working-with-screen-protector-on.4553521/
[5] https://eu.community.samsung.com/t5/galaxy-s23-series/fingerprint-reader-screen-protector/td-p/6910651
[6] https://support.google.com/pixelphone/thread/132760319?hl=en&msgid=133061449
[7] https://support.google.com/pixelphone/thread/176044942?hl=en&msgid=176050347