Samsung Fingerprint Sensor Not Working: 6 Fixes

Delete your existing fingerprints and re-register them: Settings > Biometrics and Security > Fingerprints. Clean the sensor area with a microfiber cloth first. If you have a screen protector, remove it temporarily to test — incompatible protectors are the #1 cause of under-display fingerprint sensor failures.

Depending on your Samsung model, you may have an optical under-display sensor (S20, S21, S22, S23 series), an ultrasonic under-display sensor (S10, S24 series), or a side-mounted capacitive sensor (A-series, older S-series). Optical and ultrasonic sensors are more sensitive to screen protectors and screen condition than side-mounted ones.

Under-display fingerprint sensors — especially optical ones — are highly sensitive to screen protector type and installation quality. Air bubbles, improper alignment, or a protector that's not Samsung-certified can cause complete fingerprint failure. Remove the screen protector and test bare. Samsung has a list of certified screen protectors for each model — look for ones that explicitly say 'fingerprint compatible' for your model.

For under-display sensors, the area of the screen where you place your finger needs to be clean. Oils and smudges on the screen surface degrade the sensor's ability to read your fingerprint. For side-mounted sensors, clean the sensor surface directly. Use a microfiber cloth — avoid paper towels which can scratch.

Settings > Biometrics and Security > Fingerprints > enter your PIN > select each saved fingerprint and delete it > tap 'Add Fingerprint'. When re-registering, make sure to cover the entire fingerprint area slowly and include the edges of your finger — the more coverage, the better recognition. Add a second print of the same finger at a slightly different angle for reliability.

Some Samsung models offer 'Touch Sensitivity' in Settings > Display. Increasing this can help if your fingers are often dry. You can also try registering your fingerprint with a slightly moist finger for better detail capture.

Restart your phone. Then check Settings > Software Update. One UI updates have introduced fingerprint issues and also fixed them — check your current version and update if available.

A cracked screen or burn-in on the OLED display can interfere with optical fingerprint sensors, which rely on the screen itself to illuminate the sensor. If your screen has a crack across the fingerprint zone, the sensor will likely not function properly without a screen repair.

For Samsung hardware issues under warranty, check our [Samsung recalls guide](/guides/samsung-recall) for any active service programs. You may also want to check [how to check if your device is recalled](/guides/how-to-check-if-your-device-is-recalled) if your device is still under the manufacturer warranty period.