With Chinese smartphone maker OnePlus’ next device, OnePlus 6T, set to launch, the smartphone maker has teased its new Screen Unlock technology which it confirmed that the 6T will feature.
Screen Unlock, according to OnePlus founder and CEO Peter Lau, is much more than a module attached to the back of the screen. It encompasses a wide array of software processes and hardware components that have been tuned to work with the OnePlus 6T.
The module has a new optical fingerprint module, which houses a small lens that can accurately register a user’s fingerprint as they press down on the cover glass. The screen is used as a light source to enhance the outline of your fingerprint, enabling the sensor to accurately read its exact dimensions and shape.
“We use a dedicated ‘Trust Zone’ found in the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 845 to store your fingerprint information, which serves as an isolated virtual space for the sake of confidentiality. Whenever Screen Unlock is used, your fingerprint is compared to the information stored in the Trust Zone to ensure authenticity and actively defend against false patterns,” he said in a post on OnePlus community forums explaining the technology.
Screen Unlock will use several software algorithms to recognize a user’s fingerprint with higher accuracy through extended use. OnePlus claims that it has combined its latest hardware with self-learning software algorithms that will preload the user’s fingerprint information, thus making it an incredibly fast in-display unlock experience.
This technology, Peter claims, has been in development for a long time was first on the OnePlus 5T’s early prototypes, but was scrapped as it struggled to hit a high recognition rate. As a result, the 5T and 6 came with a fingerprint sensor and Face Unlock feature.
“Now, after continuous testing and refining, we are finally ready to share Screen Unlock with the world,” Peter said in the post.
OnePlus 6T is expected to be launched on October 17 in India. The teaser released by the company suggests a waterdrop notch design with the earpiece located at the top edge. The company has also confirmed that it will finally be doing away with the 3.5mm headphone jack.
It also announced that it will be unveiling USB Type-C wired earphones for Rs 1,490 in India along with the upcoming OnePlus 6T. The earbuds will sport a metal design and aramid fibre has been added to the wire to make the device more durable and resistant to stretching. Type-C "Bullets" are compatible with any Type-C USB port and pair easily with OnePlus devices.