Introducción
Fingerprint recognition has become an everyday feature for smartphone users. For Samsung’s Galaxy A series, which bridges the gap between premium Galaxy S/Note devices and entry-level Galaxy M series, the fingerprint solution varies significantly across generations and models. From rear-mounted sensors to sleek under-display technology, the A series showcases Samsung’s evolving approach to security and usability.
Evolution of Fingerprint Technology in Samsung A Series
When fingerprint scanners first appeared on Galaxy A phones, they were mostly rear-mounted. As design trends shifted toward full-screen displays, Samsung transitioned to side-mounted and under-display solutions. The A series, being a diverse lineup, reflects this mix of old and new technologies depending on model positioning and price.
Types of Fingerprint Recognition in A Series
Under-Display Optical Fingerprint
- Most common in mid-to-upper A series models (A5x, A7x).
- Uses light to capture a fingerprint image.
- Typically located in the lower section of the screen.
Under-Display Ultrasonic Fingerprint
- Rare in A series (mainly reserved for Galaxy S/Note flagships).
- Uses sound waves for more secure scanning.
Side-Mounted Fingerprint
- Integrated into the power button.
- Quick and reliable.
- Found in budget and mid-range A series phones.
Rear-Mounted Fingerprint
- Legacy design, positioned at the back.
- Common in older A2x and A3x models.
A5x / A7x Series – The Mainstream Under-Display Leaders
Galaxy A50 Series
The Galaxy A50 was the first A series phone to adopt under-display optical fingerprint recognition. While innovative, its first-gen performance was criticized for being slower and less accurate.
Galaxia A51 / A52 / A52s / A53 / A54 / A55
Samsung refined the technology here. These models delivered faster recognition and improved reliability compared to early attempts.
Galaxy A70 / A71 / A72 / A73
These higher-tier A7x devices also adopted under-display sensors, aligning them closer to Samsung’s premium lineup.
A3x Series – Gradual Transition
Galaxy A33 (Side-Mounted)
Instead of under-display, the A33 relied on a side fingerprint scanner, offering speed and cost efficiency.
Galaxy A34 (Under-Display Optical)
The A34 marked a surprising shift by adopting an under-display scanner, bringing premium design to mid-range.
Galaxy A35 / A36 (Side-Mounted Again)
Curiosamente, Samsung reverted back to side-mounted sensors in successors, showing the balancing act between cost and user experience.
A2x Series – Budget-Friendly Choices
Galaxy A20 / A24 / A25 / A26
All of these feature side-mounted scanners.
Cost considerations make this a practical choice.
Galaxy A30 / A31
These relied on rear-mounted scanners, showing their entry-level positioning.
Special Cases in A Series
Galaxy A80
Unique for its rotating camera design, this phone used an under-display optical fingerprint, aligning with its flagship-like feel.
Galaxy A82 / A90
Both included under-display scanners, further blurring the line between premium and mid-range.
A56 (Market Specific)
Some regional models like the A56 follow the design of A35, featuring side-mounted sensors.
Comparison Table of Fingerprint Types by Model
| Modelo | Fingerprint Type |
|---|---|
| A15, A16 | Side-mounted |
| A20 | Side-mounted |
| A24, A25, A26 | Side-mounted |
| A30 | Montado en la parte trasera |
| A31 | Montado en la parte trasera |
| A32 4G | Side-mounted |
| A33 5G | Side-mounted |
| A34 5G | Under-display |
| A35, A36, A56 | Side-mounted |
| A50, A51 | Under-display |
| A52, A52s, A53, A54, A55 | Under-display |
| A70, A71, A72, A73 | Under-display |
| A80 | Under-display |
| A90 | Under-display |
How to Identify Fingerprint Type Before Buying
Checking Official Specs
Always look at Samsung’s official website or trusted retailers. Specifications clearly state the fingerprint type.
Design Cues
- Side-mounted: sensor is on power button.
- Montado en la parte trasera: sensor is visible on the back cover.
- Under-display: front screen has no visible sensor.
Release Year Reference
Post-2021, most mid-high A series adopt under-display recognition, except for budget lines.
Pros and Cons of Each Fingerprint Method
Under-Display Optical
- Ventajas: Premium feel, clean design, futuristic.
- Contras: Can be slower, struggles with wet fingers.
Side-Mounted
- Ventajas: Fast, accurate, affordable.
- Contras: Less futuristic, placement may be awkward for left-handed users.
Rear-Mounted
- Ventajas: Cheap, confiable.
- Contras: Outdated design, inconvenient when phone is on a table.
User Experience Insights
Users often find side-mounted scanners faster and more consistent. Under-display looks futuristic but can lag under certain conditions. Montado en la parte trasera, while functional, is now considered outdated and less ergonomic.
Why Samsung Chooses Different Solutions
Samsung tailors fingerprint solutions based on:
- Cost efficiency (budget devices get side-mounted).
- Market positioning (mid-high get under-display).
- User preference trends (practicality vs. premium feel).
Future of Fingerprint Recognition in A Series
Mirando hacia adelante, Samsung may unify the A series under a single solution. With ultrasonic scanners becoming more affordable, we may see a shift away from optical sensors. AI enhancements could further improve accuracy and speed, making fingerprint scanning even more seamless.
Conclusión
The Samsung Galaxy A series demonstrates how fingerprint recognition technology evolves with market demands. If you want a sleek under-display fingerprint, focus on the A5x y A7x serie, plus select models like the A34 5G, A80, and A90. Budget users can rely on the speed and reliability of side-mounted scanners. Ultimately, Samsung’s choices balance cost, design, and usability, ensuring the A series remains a versatile lineup.
Preguntas frecuentes
1. Which Galaxy A series is best if I want under-display fingerprint?
The A5x and A7x models (A53, A54, A55, A71, A73) are your best bet.
2. Is under-display fingerprint faster than side-mounted?
Not always—side-mounted sensors are typically faster, though under-display looks more premium.
3. Do all Galaxy A5x models have under-display fingerprint?
Sí, starting from the Galaxy A50 series, all A5x models include optical under-display sensors.
4. Why did Samsung keep side-mounted fingerprint on some new models?
It’s a cost-saving choice and ensures fast performance for budget and mid-tier phones.
5. Will future Galaxy A phones use ultrasonic fingerprint?
Possibly. As costs drop, Samsung may introduce ultrasonic technology into the A series.