Google is evaluating bringing fingerprint gestures to the Nexus 6P and 5X
The Pixel and Pixel XL have a handy feature that allows you to pull down the notification shade by swiping the fingerprint sensor. Many assumed that this was a feature in Android 7.1, but it did not arrive on the Nexus 6P and Nexus 6X with the update. This made a lot of Nexus users upset, especially since they have the same fingerprint sensor hardware as the Pixels.
Apparently, Google has heard the complaints. They told Android Police that they are “evaluating” a firmware update that would add support for the Nexus 6P and 5X. Despite being the same hardware, the sensors on the Nexus’ are running old firmware. Keep in mind that this news is far from a confirmation that Google will add the feature. Don’t get our hopes up.
The good news is you can still add the fingerprint gestures to many devices by using this app. It seems that Google is saving the best stuff for the Pixel devices. As much as that may anger Android fans, it’s probably a good thing for Google. We’ll just have to find creative ways to get the features ourselves.