Qualcomm has announced the in-display 3D Sonic Max, a refreshed iteration 17x bigger than the original 3D Sonic sensor of yesteryear. The original ultrasonic 3D Sonic Sensor used soundwaves to map the ridges on your finger, unlike the optical sensor fingerprint technology which more or less took a picture of your fingerprint for cross-referencing.
Unfortunately, 3D Sonic Sensor didn’t quite match the hype it had generated. Early adopters, Samsung Galaxy S10 and Galaxy Note 10 owners complained of slow unlock speeds undeserving of Qualcomm’s reputation.
Not only that, placing your finger to a sensor surface area was like resting a needle in a haystack. Getting the right alignment to unlock your device was more of a hit than a miss.
In addition, the fingerprint security was iffy when it most mattered, to say the least. This Fort Knox could be hacked quite easily with the right tools and a pair of nimble fingers.
3D Sonic Max: What to Expect
- Measures 20 mm x 30 mm
- The sensor is 0.15 mm thick
- It can read two fingerprints simultaneously
- Fingerprint data is processed directly by the hardware without the need for additional algorithms.
17x bigger is better
First off was the size of the fingerprint sensor is big. Much bigger than previously. Where before the fingerprint sensor was a mere 4mm by 9mm, a later update increased this surface area to 8mm by 8mm. The new 3D Sonic Max goes all out and measures a decent 20 mm x 30 mm, which is 17x bigger. That should silence some of us with fat fingers.
More fingerprint real estate gives the sensor more than enough material to work with. The previous issues of spoofing the sensor with $3 silicon covers would, in theory, be a thing of the past.
Two-finger authentication
Katouzian also announced 3D Sonic Max, the latest version of our ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. 3D Sonic Max offers a recognition area that is 17x larger than the previous generation, allowing for increased security via simultaneous two-finger authentication, increased speed and ease of use. Qualcomm Press Release
Do you know what you can do with a large fingerprint sensor? I know, know! Scan two fingers at the same time! Well, well, unless we evolve a sixth finger to keep up with our technology, I honestly don’t see myself scanning two fingers. Hear me out. A handheld device gives you two options to unlock it using fingerprint authentication.
The first is the index finger at the back with the device cradled in the palm of your hand. The second option is the opposable thumb at the front. Both options can be easily executed with one hand. But scanning two fingers all at once? Maybe my resistance to change will reunite me with dinosaurs.
Related:
- The Galaxy S10 Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor has a BIG flaw
- How does Samsung’s ultrasonic fingerprint scanner differ from other in-screen readers?
- 5 reasons you might want a smartphone with an In-display fingerprint sensor
Is it better?
Qualcomm claims that 3D Sonic Max delivers 1::1,000,000 compared to 1::50,000 accuracy of the original 3D Sonic sensor. That’s better right? We hope so. Qualcomm also says its sensor packs a slew of advanced security features on top of being fasterng faster. However most of this cannot be determined as of yet, given that, well, 3D Sonic Max is not yet out. So, there’s that.
When to Expect 3D Sonic Max?
Our money is on 2020 being the year we might most probably see devices sporting 3D Sonic Max. What we aren’t sure of is whether big-hitters like Samsung will take the bait. Samsung took a beating due to ultrasonic fingerprint flaws in their Galaxy S10 and Galaxy Note 10 lineups.
There are rumours that Apple might take up the mantle and incorporate in-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanners in its next releases this year 2020 or in 2021. We can’t say more about that, only that Alex Katouzian, senior vice president and general manager of mobile at Qualcomm hinted at announcements this year. Fingers crossed.
Featured Image: Digital Trends
Sydney Mugerwa is a seasoned consumer tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with a passion for reviewing the latest gadgets and smart devices. From smartphones and wearables to smart home products and cameras, Sydney breaks down the complexities of consumer tech, making it easy to understand through detailed reviews and how-to guides. His mission is to simplify tech jargon and help readers make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of technology.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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One of the many standout features of the Samsung Galaxy S10 flagship is the device’s Ultrasonic under-display fingerprint scanner . The ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner — manufactured and supplied by Qualcomm — was touted by Samsung to be way more secure and reliable than the regular optical under-display fingerprint readers in that it uses sound pressure waves to penetrate the sub-dermal layer of your fingers and map out a 3D image of the of users’ fingerprint whorls, ridges, and pores.
Optical under-display sensors, on the other hand, only capture 2D images of the user fingerprint. According to an experiment carried out by a Reddit user, however, the Samsung Galaxy S10’s ultrasonic fingerprint reader isn’t exactly “fool-proof”.
Although the user intentionally carried out the test on his smartphone as a playful experiment, it exposes the long-term security implications of the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. Think about it. This experiment reveals that an intruder could take a picture of your fingerprint on a glass cup, or perhaps take a clear shot of your fingers with a DSLR camera, proceed to print a 3D resin of your prints and unlock your phone behind you. The fact that — unlike pin, patterns, and passwords — fingerprints doesn’t change even makes this more scary. Does this mean if an intruder has images of your fingers, he can unlock your fingerprint… forever?
I attempted to fool the new Samsung Galaxy S10’s ultrasonic fingerprint scanner by using 3d printing. I succeeded.
The Samsung Galaxy S10 is a brilliant device. But with recent developments, it’s pretty much becoming obvious that, perhaps, the (ultrasonic) under-display fingerprint sensor is a step backward. And considering that the device had a lot of real-estate on the back, Samsung should have stuck with a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor on the rear.
What’s your thought on this issue concerning ultrasonic under-display sensors? Knowing this, would you ever feel she using a smartphone with an under-display fingerprint reader?
Sodiq Olamide is a tech writer based in Nigeria, covering the latest reviews, how-tos, and news on consumer tech trends with a unique African perspective. Whether analyzing emerging technologies or offering practical guides, Sodiq brings a deep understanding of how technology shapes lives across the continent.
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Everything about the Samsung in-display fingerprint scanner is different and using ultrasonic tech is what makes it different. Prior to the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S10 series , there have been smartphones with in-display fingerprint scanners. However, this is the first time a smartphone features an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. This is because the ones before it are optical and not ultrasonic. Basically, it uses light to create a 2D image of your fingerprint. On the other ultrasonic type, sound waves is used to make a 3D structure of your finger offering more accuracy.
The ultrasonic scanner used in Samsung’s flagships is actually from Qualcomm, which is part of the added perks of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 on board. In fact, this is the third generation of the ultrasonic scanner by Qualcomm. A vision since 2013 when the company acquired Ultra-Scan , a company that produced ultrasonic readers for the US government. The optical fingerprint scanner on the OnePlus 6T , Huawei Mate 20 Pro , Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro and so on is from Synaptics . This way, the Samsung ultrasonic fingerprint stands out from the rest.
How it works
The way it works, the ultrasonic fingerprint world is much more different than the others. The ultrasonic fingerprint scanner sends sound wave which scatters when it hits your finger. This is measured by the scanner, thereby creating a 3D image of your hand. Then stored so that every time you want to unlock your phone it compares the image generated with the one saved. What makes this process more accurate is the ability of the sound waves to penetrate the sub-dermal layer. In this regard it reads into every pore offering much more detail than an optical fingerprint scanner. Unlike the optical scanner that shines light unto your finger thereby capturing only a 2D fingerprint image. If it comes to it, it can be deceived with a perfect printed replica of your fingerprint.
Discover: How an In-display Fingerprint Scanner works (and more)
Durability and added perks
Illuminating your fingers through the display leads to a gradual degrading of the OLED screen over time. For this reason, the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner is not only more accurate but also durable. Not to mention the extra potentials of the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner on Samsung’s latest flagships due to its deeper penetration. It could function as a heart rate monitor, read blood sugar and so on. Going back to the primary job here, it can read your fingerprint despite having dirt on your hand.
Physical attributes
You can easily fit an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner into a slim smartphone because of small size. With a thickness of just about 0.2mm which is relatively negligible to the overall 7.8mm thickness of the Samsung Galaxy S10 . In that way, it doesn’t get in the way of the portability of the smartphone. Nonetheless, the ultrasonic fingerprint does not read from more part of the screen as the optical type does. Covering about 25mm x 50.2mm area at the bottom of the Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro and the entire screen on the Vivo Apex 2019 concept phone, the optical reader offers more space. On the other hand, the Samsung ultrasonic fingerprint scanner is active in only part of the bottom screen and is likely not to work with a screen protector.
See: The Vivo X20 plus UD is the first phone with in-screen fingerprint scanner
Conclusion
The Samsung ultrasonic reader pioneers a new system of biometric authentication which is more secure and has more potentials. Upcoming flagships will sure feature this type of fingerprint scanner this year going forward.
Odunayo Ezekiel is a consumer tech writer based in Nigeria with deep experience in the country’s fast-evolving tech ecosystem. From smartphones and apps to fintech and local startups, he brings sharp insight and a user-first perspective to every story. At Dignited.com, Odunayo covers the trends, tools, and innovations shaping how Nigerians—and Africans at large—experience technology.
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The evolution of smartphones has brought a lot with it. From the race to the slimmest phone on market, to the device with the least bezels; from the make with the sharpest camera, to the security trends in the fingerprint scanners and Face ID; name it all. With such trends coming in over time, different issues arise that cause a need for yet another milestone.
For instance, a number of users find it complex when looking for the fingerprint sensor at the back. This is due to lack of its direct visibility on large screen devices, and a number of manufacturers have adopted suiting the sensor into the home screen. But larger screens also demand that the home screen should disappear, the in-display fingerprint sensor comes in sight.
At the Consumers Electronics Show (CES) 2018 in Las Vegas, the Vivo smartphone brand introduces an under-display fingerprint sensor feature on its latest smartphone, the Vivo X21. With other OEMs adopting the feature, this could be the next ultimate big thing.
How Does the in-display Fingerprint Reader Work?
When a user’s finger touches the screen of the phone, the display emits light to illuminate the finger. The optical fingerprint sensor below the display captures the light reflected by the fingerprint, and the sensor processes the optical signals to deliver crisp and sharp fingerprint images for matching, based on the reflected light from the unique ridges on the fingerprint,
When fingerprint recognition is needed, such as when the screen is off and for unlocking apps or when you hold up the phone, the fingerprint sensor indicator will light up and icon will appear on the screen for users to press for immediate authentication. It is otherwise invisible to ensure a seamless mobile experience.
Reasons you may want it
Nature : Those that have held smartphones from their inception will tell you that the very first fingerprint sensors were at the front. Samsung, OnePlus, and Apple had this in mind before the fight for the larger screens pushed them to shift the sensors to the back. So, it would be very natural to have that sensor in the display.
Convenience : A front-mounted sensor is also more convenient to use when your phone is resting on your table. No need to raise it up, the way you would do for one at the back. You can also relate to a situation when you are holding stuff in your hands, and only a single finger is free. Even in a car, you can easily unlock the phone when its in its holder.
Broader Scanner : You don’t have to squeeze a large thumb into a small scanner area. The in-display fingerprint scanner will make it easier to place a finger anywhere on the screen to unlock it seamlessly.
No specific finger : When holding your phone with your left hand, it could be most sure that a left finger will do the unlock – say the scanner is at the back. With the in-screen fingerprint reader, you do not have to hustle on looking for the finger to use, whatever is available is what you use. No worries about being left or right handed.
Accuracy : Some rear scanners are really stubborn and require you to place the finger a certain way to work. This is primarily because you cant see where you are placing the finger, and can’t confirm that it is indeed the right position. With a front display scanner, why would you fail on accuracy when you can see where to place it?
The Downside
Being optical-type sensors, they are slower than the capacitive ones that most people are used to by now. This is a reason for the delay in OEMs adopting them for smartphones.
This account is managed by the in-house team at Dignited, a collective of passionate tech writers, editors, and enthusiasts dedicated to bringing you the latest insights, reviews, and news on consumer technology. For inquiries or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] .
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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