Potential Google Pixel 8 buyers unhappy with rumors of optical fingerprint sensor, instead of ultrasonic counterpart

The recent rumor that Google’s new Pixel 8 lineup features an optical fingerprint sensor instead of its coveted ultrasonic counterpart has left a faction of Pixel enthusiasts disheartened. As compared to the optical fingerprint sensors, the ultrasonic sensors are better as they are more accurate and secure. They also work better in a wider range of environmental conditions.

However, people are disappointed with Google’s unwillingness to adopt more advanced and widely accepted sensor technology.

An individual who allegedly unboxed and tested one of the devices from the Pixel series claims that while setting up and using the device, they found out that its sensor illuminates the screen to facilitate fingerprint recognition. This is a characteristic not shared by ultrasonic sensors, thus underscoring a significant technological divergence.

Naturally, fans were upset, as they were expecting the company to add ultrasonic sensors to the new lineup. However, critics claim that Google often cuts corners and opts for cost-effective hardware solutions, a practice that has drawn consistent criticism.

Pixel owners contend that the embedded sensor fails to work properly with weather variations or changes in skin texture. They generally have to put on some lotion to be able to use it. And without a doubt, it can become quite agitating if one needs to do so frequently. In contrast, those who own phones equipped with ultrasonic sensors laud them for their swiftness and precision.

Notably, the performance of the optical sensor is a deal-breaker for some. While they appreciate the refined design and symmetrical bezels in the new lineup, they don’t want to use the subpar sensor again. The use of old and outdated hardware and the lack of new and modern features have also raised eyebrows.

Utilization of the antiquated GN1 and ultrawide sensors and the absence of a dedicated telephoto sensor have left several dismayed. Additionally, people are unhappy with the reliance on software for professional controls.

Understandably, one would not expect the latest flagship phone to lack features that other brands already provide. Also, they are unhappy with the rumored base price increase of a hundred dollars.

A section of users claims that the fingerprint sensors on all the Pixels that they have ever owned worked perfectly fine. They also argue that people experience problems due to the presence of the sensor beneath the screen. In addition, they believe that the company should opt for traditional button scanners for better reliability.

Some also think that one can go for the regular Pixel phones, as they offer a better value for their price compared to the Pro model.

Last year, Hillary from our team shared their opinions on whether or not the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner is necessary for the Pixel 8. Especially considering that it’ll likely come at an added cost. So now that it’s rumored that the device will be skipping it, we also hope not to see any major price bumps.

Be sure that we will update this piece as soon as we come across anything noteworthy.

Note: We have more such stories in our dedicated Google section, so make sure that you follow them as well.

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