Neither Apple or Samsung has released a smartphone with an in-display fingerprint sensor, but it might be the latter that wins the race.
A new patent filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), via TechTastic, suggests Samsung is exploring the possibility of a smartphone with a fingerprint sensor embedded int he display. The patent, which is in no way representative of a final product, shows a typical rectangular device with a sensor toward the bottom of the screen.
According to the patent, Samsung's would-be device would show users an on-screen visual to indicate where users can place their finger. The company's implementation sounds similar in execution to the Vivo device we recently saw. In that instance, the software provided visual feedback to show the fingerprint sensor's location.
The rise of in-display fingerprint sensor is thanks to technology from Synaptics, which allows companies to place the sensor below a handset's OLED panel. In the Vivo prototype we tested earlier this year, the experience was very seamless and easy to use.
The thing about patents is they're not always implemented in products. Samsung could explore the option but ultimately transition to alternative biometrics, something Apple did last year with the iPhone X and Face ID.
Samsung is gearing up to introduce the Galaxy S9 at the end of February, which we already know will feature a fingerprint sensor on the back of the device. If Samsung does eventually go with an in-display solution, the Note 9 would be the likeliest candidate.
Either that or Samsung's reported foldable Galaxy X.
Disguise your little one with the help of a themed costume
From avocado halves to hoppy bunnies, costumes speak to every child's unique spirit. And we've collected our favorite options.
Add magic to your living space with these string lights
String lights add personality and soft light to your living space. Here are some of the best.
The Galaxy S20 Ultra's Space Zoom camera is amazing and a bit creepy
The Galaxy S20 Ultra supports up to 100X zoom, which Samsung calls Space Zoom, but is it any good? Can a phone really product usable photos at 100x zoom? We've got our Galaxy S20 Ultra already so join us to find out!
These are the best Galaxy S10 screen protectors
The Galaxy S10 comes equipped with the most beautiful smartphone display on the market. Make sure it remains that way with a screen protector. Here's a roundup of the best Galaxy S10 screen protectors available right now.