It looks like Google was quiet about the Pixel 9a getting 'screen-off' fingerprint scanning

Pixel 9a Reddit users reported a new Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock option appearing on the Pixel 9a, report originated on the Pixel_phones subreddit.

March update Users said the option began appearing with the March update, multiple Reddit posts attribute arrival to the March update.

Settings menu A 'When using Fingerprint Unlock' submenu now contains a Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock toggle, users observed the submenu and toggle in fingerprint settings.

Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock The Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock lets users unlock without waking the display, users can place a finger on the screen and unlock without turning on the display first.

Android 16 The screen-off fingerprint feature was first reported in late 2024 during Android 16 Developer Preview 2, feature was tested on Pixel 9 series during preview.