Android 16 Developer Preview 2 improves battery life, adds fingerprint unlock on Pixel when screen is off: report

Android 16 Developer Preview 2 (DP2) has been released by Google, which allows testing of new APIs and features. In addition to improvements to the features introduced with the first preview last month, the latest update is said to increase battery life. Furthermore, it bundles a new feature that is exclusive to Pixel devices. After its arrival, Pixel users will be able to use the fingerprint unlock sensor even when the screen is off.

New features of Android 16

Android 16 adds a new setting called Developer Preview 2, Android Authority reports Screen-Off Fingerprint UnlockCurrently, the in-display fingerprint sensor requires the handset’s screen to be active for it to work. While there is no direct option to enable it, turning on the always-on display or tapping to wake could be some solutions.

However, the new option of Android 16 DP2 may change this. Its description says that it can be toggled to use fingerprint unlock even when the screen is off.

This feature was reportedly discovered on Google Pixel 9 Pro Settings > Security & Privacy > Device Unlock > Face & Fingerprint Unlock > Fingerprint UnlockIt is said to be only compatible with devices equipped with an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint scanner. The publication confirms that Screen-Off Fingerprint Unlock The setting does not work on older Pixel devices running Android 16 DP2 that do not have the aforementioned fingerprint sensor.

Google also confirms that its latest Android 16 build improves battery life. The official changelog states that it enhances the app experience, improves battery life and performance while reducing incompatibilities.

other additions

According to Google, Android 16 DP2 makes it easier for apps to take advantage of adaptive refresh rate – a feature that was first introduced in Android 15. This has been made possible by the introduction of two new APIs and the restoration of one old one.

Additionally, it is also claimed to offer rich haptics with the new haptic API. Apps will be able to define the amplitude and frequency curve of the haptic effect despite differences arising due to device capabilities.