Ah, Biometrics. The selling point of life sensitive security controls is its supposed ease of use. A survey sponsored by Biometric manufacturer Authentec shows that finger scanning on mobile devices is preferred by consumers, if they were to have that option. Of course, this is also a PR spin towards their way, but we can see past that to look at how interesting this slap it on type of technology is, especially for mobile phones.

The independent survey of cell phone users (ages 18-25) was sponsored by fingerprint sensor supplier AuthenTec (NASDAQ: AUTH) and indicates that the vast majority (80%) would like to see widespread availability of fingerprint-enabled phones in the U.S. between now and next year, and nearly half (45%) would be willing to pay $10 or more for a phone if it was equipped with fingerprint security. Highlighting the desire and trust in fingerprint sensor security, more than two-thirds of respondents (69%) would feel more secure about conducting mobile financial transactions via their phone if it was equipped with a fingerprint sensor. [source]

I’ve had my fill of biometric scanners and I honestly can’t compare the experience to not having one. Well, what I’m trying to say is that I’ve always been fearful of the possibility of not being able to access my phone if my fingerprint is read wrong. Are biometric scanners very reliable in this day – for mobile phones or are phones too personal for us, that we don’t really find the need yet? Survey says that close to 50% are willing to have one.

Well, as a consumer, if my phone comes with it, I’ll use it. Maybe. But it won’t be on my top priority list.

[logo c/o Authentec]

Post from: Cellphone9

Fujitsu recently unveiled the F906i, with built in AuthenTec and TrueNav features which allow for seamless finger scrolling and touchpad functions. This basically emulates the iPhone in many respects.

“Fujitsu continues to build on its market leadership with the addition of the F906i to its world phone lineup, and we’re pleased to support the Fujitsu and NTT DOCOMO teams on the launch of this innovative smart phone,” said Kengo Kobayashi, president of AuthenTec KK – Japan. “AuthenTec helps further enhance the F906i by enabling full touchpad emulation via our AES1710 sensor, thus providing highly intuitive and accurate on-screen menu navigation. Our integrated TrueNav feature gives users a full range of device navigation by moving their finger across the surface of the sensor to control a full-featured browser, manipulate documents, stored files, contact lists and to control a variety of phone functions….

AuthenTec’s AES1710 fingerprint sensor is based on the Company’s patented TruePrint technology, which reads below the surface of the skin to the live layer where a person’s true fingerprint resides. This unique subsurface approach enables AuthenTec sensors to read virtually every fingerprint, every time — a critical requirement in any fingerprint-enabled device. Other device features include TrueNav menu navigation, TrueFinger anti-spoofing security, and TrueMatch pattern matching to ensure the industry’s highest level of security, usability and convenience. [RELEASE]“

The F906i comes with 3G, GPS maps, mobile TV with support for DOCOMO’s 100 channel broadcasts, mobile credit card payment system and full widescreen VGA LCD. The phone has two cameras – a 3.2MP and a secondary camera for 3G calls.

Post from: Cellphone9