S21 Fingerprint Scanner Sleep Mode

[GingerSnapA]

New S21 5G, no screen protector installed yet.  I have to press the side key to wake up the phone before I can use my fingerprint to unlock it.  With my A71 I could use my fingerprint on the dark screen to unlock it.  Is the S21 different in that the phone has to be awake to use the fingerprint?  At that point I may as well type in my password.

[GalaxyA51user]

Settings > Biometrics > Fingerprint > Keep fingerprint always on. Turn it on and done! If your issue is solved, please accept my comment as solution by clicking at 3 dots on my comment✅️

[GingerSnapA]

Thanks for the quick response.  I do have Keep Fingerprint Always On already selected (I made sure all settings were the same as my A71, thinking I was missing something obvious).  

[GalaxyA51user]

That means it's turned on, but how it doesn't work then🧐 Disable and enable again 🤔

[GalaxyA51user]

Also, select Always On Display to always on, and see if fingerprint icon is turned on. If yes, try to unlock.

[xSteveuk]

To unlock your phone using your finger, tap the screen or press the Power key or Side key. Then, place the registered finger on the fingerprint scanner, wherever it's located. The phone will automatically unlock if it recognizes your fingerprint.

You can always try
Lift the phone to wake up
Or lift to unlock

https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00083345/

[TonyPop]

You don't have to tap or press side keys. Just place finger on fingerprint icon and it should unlock.

[AndrewL]

@GingerSnapA: Further to the post above by @GalaxyA51user can you clarify if you have the following setting active?

Settings > Biometrics and Security > Fingerprints > Enter PIN > Show Icon When Screen Is Off > On Always On Display.

To ensure that Always On Display is enabled, head to Settings > Lock Screen > Always On Display > On. 

[GingerSnapA]

I am sorry for wasting everybody's time, but very grateful for the level of support.  I figured it out...by accident.  The S21 is smaller than the A71 so the location of the print is higher on the S21...I was pressing too low.  Again, my apologies and thanks to all who took the time to respond (it's ok for you to roll your eyes or shake your head at this one!).

[AndrewL]

@GingerSnapA: It's no bother at all. I'm pleased to hear that you were able to find the solution to your issue.