Another issue with potentially more troubling security concerns has now surfaced after we heard about a Google Pixel bug that automatically declined calls on your behalf. When the Google Pixel 6a goes on sale on July 28, it will cost $449, which is the problem.
In a Reddit thread, people are bringing up two videos showing the Google Pixel 6a unlocking with unregistered fingerprints, according to Android Police. If you don’t have your biometrics stored on the device you can still use it to unlock it.
The first video shows that the Pixel 6a unlocks with both of Geekyranjit’s thumbs, even though only one is registered. When compared to the Nothing Phone, this is understandable. The video is embedded below for your viewing pleasure:
In contrast, a video from Beebom shows multiple people unlocking the Pixel 6a, even though the phone only has two fingerprints registered. Here’s a link to the video:
Pixel 6a, Google’s latest smartphone, was unveiled in May this year. With the same Tensor SoC that powers the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, this phone has a 6.1-inch OLED display.
Google, on the other hand, had to make some compromises to make it more affordable. Corning Gorilla Glass 3 was used instead of Gorilla Glass Victus because the display refresh rate could not be increased past 60Hz.
The back panel appears to be another area where Google has saved money. The plastic back of the Pixel 6a, in contrast to the glass panel on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, is said to be scratch-prone.
The Pixel 6a has a dual camera setup on the back, with a 12MP lens and a 12MP ultrawide sensor, both with f/2.0 apertures. Also, the front-facing 8MP camera can record 1080p video at 30 frames per second.
Pixel 6a will receive Android upgrades and security updates for up to three years, just like the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 6 Pro
Fast charging up to 18W is supported by the device’s 4410mAh Li-Po battery. As expected, Android 12 will be preinstalled on the device.
It is important to note that not everyone with the Pixel 6a at this time could reproduce the issue, so it could be a hardware defect. That said, two relatively popular YouTubers getting defective devices doesn’t bode that well for Google either and raises questions about its quality control methodologies.
The Pixel 6 had similar issues last year, but that was due to substandard screen protectors. The fingerprint scanner on that device was also deemed to be too slow by reviewers and the general public. Although the Pixel 6a uses a different fingerprint sensor that is supposed to be faster than its predecessor, it remains to be seen how widespread the potential security issue is.
The fingerprint scanner is allegedly unlocking the phone even with unregistered fingers for some YouTubers who got a chance to review it.
When it comes to smartphones, it’s frustrating that even budget models don’t have this issue. It appears that Google has made a major blunder.
