You can get the Sony Xperia XZ and X Compact fingerprint sensor working by flashing this custom firmware
If the lack of fingerprint scanning capabilities was holding you back from picking up a Sony Xperia XZ or Sony X Compact (I know it was for me), you may want to reconsider after learning this tidbit of news. It turns out the fingerprint sensor is, in fact, installed on the Xperia XZ/X Compact — it’s just dormant.
We know, this was the case with previous generation models, so it’s not too big of a surprise. But a brave Android user over on XDA was able to confirm, taking matters into his own hands and flashing the UK firmware. When all was said and done, the user claims the sensor is working perfectly along with is device which supports North American cellular bands. Awesome.
Apparently, the custom UK firmware can be flashed using a tool called XperiFirm and according to the OP, only took about “2 minutes” to flash everything over and get that dormant fingerprint scanner up and running like the good Lord intended. If that wasn’t enough to entice you, he also mentions the scanner performs much quicker than the previous Z5 Compact, which is an added plus.
If you know your way around an Android device, you can get started by checking out the instructions here, or by visiting the XperiFirm thread on XDA. For more on the Xperia XZ and X Compact, you can check out our hands-on coverage from IFA 2016.
[via XDA]