Before the launch of the Google Nexus 6, there were a number of rumors that the device would come with a fingerprint sensor. This feature was highly anticipated by tech enthusiasts and potential buyers who were looking forward to enhanced security and convenience.
When the handset launched, however, there was no fingerprint sensor, and now Motorola CEO, Dennis Woodside, has explained what happened to the device’s fingerprint sensor.
The Missing Fingerprint Sensor
Indeed, the 6-inch Nexus 6, he can now admit, was stymied by just one of those big players. A dimple on the back that helps users hold the device should, in fact, have been rather more sophisticated. “The secret behind that is that it was supposed to be fingerprint recognition, and Apple bought the best supplier. So the second best supplier was the only one available to everyone else in the industry and they weren’t there yet,” says Woodside.
So Motorola had originally intended to launch the Nexus 6 with a fingerprint sensor but was unable to find a supplier capable of making the sensor for the handset, as Apple had already purchased the market leader.
Impact on the Market
The absence of a fingerprint sensor on the Nexus 6 was a significant point of discussion among tech reviewers and consumers. At the time, fingerprint sensors were becoming a standard feature in high-end smartphones, offering an additional layer of security and ease of use. Apple’s acquisition of AuthenTec, the leading fingerprint sensor technology company, gave it a substantial edge over its competitors. This move by Apple not only secured the best technology for its own devices but also left other manufacturers scrambling to find alternative solutions.
Motorola’s predicament highlights the competitive nature of the tech industry, where securing the best components can make or break a product. The Nexus 6, despite lacking a fingerprint sensor, still received positive reviews for its performance, display, and build quality. However, the absence of this feature may have influenced some consumers’ purchasing decisions, especially those who prioritize security features.
Technological Advancements and Future Implications
Since the launch of the Nexus 6, fingerprint sensor technology has advanced significantly. Modern smartphones now feature highly sophisticated biometric security options, including in-display fingerprint sensors and facial recognition technology. These advancements have set new standards for security and user convenience.
The situation with the Nexus 6 serves as a reminder of how quickly technology evolves and how crucial it is for companies to stay ahead of the curve. It also underscores the importance of strategic acquisitions and partnerships in the tech industry. By securing the best technology, companies can not only enhance their products but also gain a competitive advantage.
The story of the Nexus 6 and its missing fingerprint sensor is a fascinating example of the challenges and complexities involved in smartphone development. It highlights the impact of strategic decisions and market dynamics on product features and consumer expectations. While the Nexus 6 may not have had the fingerprint sensor that many anticipated, it remains a noteworthy device in the history of smartphones.
Source, 9 To 5 Mac
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