Get started with the fingerprint sensor on your Samsung Galaxy
No one in the world is quite like you, and your fingerprints are just as unique. That’s what makes fingerprint security on Galaxy phones and tablets so reliable. The setup and placement of the fingerprint scanner may vary depending on your device, but this guide will help you get started and make the most of it.
Note: These instructions apply to devices sold in Canada with Android 9.0 or later. Screens and settings may vary depending on your carrier, software version and device model.
The location of the fingerprint scanner can vary depending on your Galaxy phone or tablet. Make sure you know where it is before you start the registration process.
Galaxy phones with a fingerprint scanner built into the screen
- Galaxy S25 series
- Galaxy S24 series
- Galaxy S23 series
- Galaxy S22 series
- Galaxy S21 series
- Galaxy S20 series
- Galaxy S10 series (except the Galaxy S10e)
- Galaxy Note20 series
- Galaxy Note10 series
- Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A36 5G
- Galaxy A42 5G
- Galaxy A50, Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A52 5G, Galaxy A53 5G, Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A56 5G
- Galaxy A71
Galaxy phones with a fingerprint scanner on the back
- Galaxy A11
- Galaxy A20
- Galaxy A21
- Galaxy S8 series
- Galaxy S9 series
- Galaxy Note8
- Galaxy Note9
Galaxy tablets with a fingerprint scanner built into the screen
- Galaxy Tab S5e
- Galaxy Tab S6 and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
- Galaxy Tab S7+ and Galaxy Tab S7 FE
- Galaxy Tab S8+ and Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+ and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra
Galaxy devices with a fingerprint scanner on the Side button
- Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Fold6, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Z Fold4 and Galaxy Z Fold3
- Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, Galaxy Z Flip6, Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Flip4, Galaxy Z Flip3, Galaxy Z Flip 5G and Galaxy Z Flip
- Galaxy A03s
- Galaxy A12, Galaxy A13, Galaxy A13 5G, Galaxy A15 5G and Galaxy A16 5G
- Galaxy A23 5G, Galaxy A25 5G and Galaxy A26 5G
- Galaxy A32
- Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A56 5G
- Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Galaxy Tab S9+ FE
- Galaxy Tab S8
- Galaxy Tab S7
Galaxy devices with a fingerprint scanner on the Power button
- Galaxy Z Fold2 and Galaxy Z Fold
- Galaxy S10e
- Galaxy XCover6 Pro
- Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+
Galaxy devices with a fingerprint scanner on the Home button
- Galaxy S7 series
- Galaxy S6 series
- Galaxy Tab S3
- Galaxy Tab S2
Note: The Galaxy A10e and Galaxy A01 do not include a fingerprint scanner.
It’s time to set up fingerprint access and register your fingerprints. The steps are almost the same on every Galaxy device, with the only difference being where the fingerprint scanner is located.
Note: If you already have a screen lock, enter your credentials and continue to step 5.
Note: If your device’s fingerprint scanner is on the Side button or Power button, you can turn off the Fingerprint always on option to help prevent accidental unlocks.
Note:
- If your fingerprint isn’t recognized: You’ll be prompted to unlock your device using the alternative method you set up (PIN, password, or pattern).
- When fingerprint recognition may fail: Wet, sweaty, or very dry skin, dirt or lotion on your finger, skin injuries, or extreme temperatures can make your fingerprint harder to read. In these cases, try using another registered finger or your alternative unlock method.
- Possible variations in steps: The procedure may vary depending on your model or software version. Steps can also change after an interface update, but your device will always display on-screen instructions to guide you.
Sometimes it’s easier to unlock your device with a different finger, depending on how you’re holding it. You can register multiple fingerprints so your device unlocks comfortably no matter which hand you use.
Tip: Most Samsung Galaxy devices let you register up to 4 fingerprints. On some mid-range or older models, the limit may be 3. The easiest way to know for sure is to try adding more fingerprints, since the process only takes a few minutes.
Note: You can also add another fingerprint from this screen by tapping Add.
Although the fingerprint scanner may be in different places, removing a fingerprint works the same way on all Galaxy devices.
Note:
- Remove multiple fingerprints: Touch and hold a fingerprint, select any additional fingerprints you want to remove, then tap Remove at the bottom of the screen.
- Removing all fingerprints: If you remove all registered fingerprints, the Fingerprint unlock feature will be turned off automatically.
Follow these tips to help your fingerprint scanner work reliably:
- Make sure your finger fully covers the scanner, and hold the device the same way you did when you set up your fingerprints.
- Ensure both the scanner and your fingertip are clean and dry before scanning.
- Restart your phone or tablet, then try the fingerprint scanner again.
- Keep your device and apps updated to the latest version.
- Remove your saved fingerprints and register them again for better accuracy.
Tip: If the fingerprint scanner still doesn’t recognize your prints, you can unlock your device using your regular PIN, password or pattern.
If your Galaxy device has trouble recognizing your fingerprint, it’s often due to temporary changes in your skin or conditions affecting the scanner. Here are some common situations and how they can impact accuracy:
- Changes in skin hydration: After a shower, swimming or washing your hands, extra moisture can affect the way the scanner reads your fingerprint. Sweat can cause similar problems by altering how your fingerprint’s ridges and valleys are detected.
- Skin injuries or changes: Cuts, burns, blisters or scrapes can temporarily alter your fingerprint pattern. Healing skin or scar tissue may also affect recognition until the skin stabilizes.
- Dry or peeling skin: Very dry skin (especially in winter) or peeling from dryness can reduce the contact points needed for a clear scan.
- Dirt, lotion, or residues: Oils, lotions, sunscreen, makeup or food residue on your finger can interfere with the scan. Dust or dirt on the scanner itself can also reduce accuracy.
- Changes in finger usage: Repetitive work, such as manual labor, woodworking or gardening, can wear down fingerprint ridges over time.
- Temperature extremes: Very cold fingers may have reduced blood flow and firmness, making the print less distinct. Swollen fingers from heat or exercise can slightly change the way your fingerprint makes contact with the scanner.
Tip: If you experience frequent recognition issues, try registering the same finger more than once or adding multiple fingers for better reliability.
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