On the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra and Galaxy Z Flip 8, you can change the side-mounted fingerprint sensor from Samsung’s default press-to-unlock behavior to an “always on” touch-only method. Switching to the always-on option speeds up unlocking but raises the risk of accidental unlocks.
Side-mounted fingerprint options on Galaxy Z foldables
Foldable Galaxy phones use a side-mounted fingerprint sensor built into the side key rather than an in-display sensor. By default, Samsung requires a simultaneous touch and press of the side key to unlock the Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra or Flip 8 with your fingerprint — a two-step process that confirms intention. You can change that behavior so the sensor activates with a simple touch. To do this, go to Settings > Lock screen and AOD > Screen lock and biometrics > Fingerprints > Fingerprint always on > Cover and main screens. The setting lets you specify whether a tap should unlock the phone only while folded (cover screen) or while unfolded (main screen).
The pros and cons of the always-on setting
Samsung’s default press-and-touch setting adds a small extra step and is marginally slower than touch-only unlocking. The side-mounted sensor’s placement can also make unlocking less convenient from some angles compared with in-display sensors. In return, the default setting offers better security and largely prevents accidental touch unlocks. Setting the sensor to always on speeds the authentication process, but the main downside is accidental unlocks: touching that area of the frame in the right way can unlock the phone without your knowledge.
Choose the setting that matches your priorities: a slightly slower but more secure default, or a faster always-on touch unlock with a higher chance of unintended unlocks.
