Samsung Galaxy S9 Rumors Suggest Fingerprint Scanner Update, MWC 2018 Release Date

Reports continue to indicate that the Galaxy S9 likely won’t include an on-screen fingerprint scanner, but Samsung may be making changes to its rear fingerprint scanner, in accordance with consumer demand. Slash Leaks recently shared a concept design, which it claims is of the Galaxy S9 design. It includes a rear fingerprint scanner in a more centralized location.

Samsung’s 2017 flagships, including the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8 have featured rear fingerprint scanners in odd locations -- at the upper right corner of the device next to the camera module. Consumers found this placement cumbersome as it is hard to reach the sensor without looking first. Consumers would often end up touching the camera module instead of attempting to access the fingerprint scanner with the device’s screen facing forward.

If this CAD leak is accurate, consumers may see a Galaxy S9 with a fingerprint scanner below the camera module. Most devices with rear fingerprint scanners have similar designs, with the sensor centered on the back panel so users can instinctively place their pointer finger in that area to authenticate a device.

However, the Galaxy S9 sketches show the fingerprint scanner is still placed much higher on the back panel, which could still be hard to reach, depending on a person’s hand size. Still, a centered fingerprint scanner will likely be easier for consumers than one located in an upper right corner.

Samsung moved its fingerprint scanner to the rear of its 2017 devices to usher in the infinity display with an 18:5:9 aspect ratio, which takes up nearly the entire front of the handset. The Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8 both feature virtual home buttons instead of capacitive buttons, as a preamble to the on-screen fingerprint scanner.

Despite many rumors to the contrary, neither device released with an on-screen fingerprint scanner. However, current rumors suggest Samsung is aiming to introduce a display embedded fingerprint scanner on the Galaxy Note 9.

Recent rumors also suggest Samsung may release the Galaxy S9 during Mobile World Congress, which takes place Feb. 26 to March 1, 2018. Samsung is known for unveiling Galaxy S models during this time; however, it announced the Galaxy S8 in late March due to safety concerns after the Galaxy Note 7 malfunctions and discontinuation. Pundits have assumed that Samsung would continue hosting a standalone event for future Galaxy S launches, but popular Twitter leakster, @Ricciolo1 claims the Galaxy S9 will see an MWC launch with a dual-camera, faster specs, and features similar to those seen on the iPhone X.