04 Fingerprint Sensor from Qualcomm
A new type of fingerprint sensor will do more than
unlock your iPhone. This fingerprint sensor
unveiled by the chipmaker Qualcomm at the
Mobile World Congress (MWC) trade fair can
read prints through glass, metal, and plastic
smartphone covers.
The Snapdragon Sense ID 3D Fingerprint
Technology uses ultrasonic waves to authenticate
your fingerprint in 3D. This Snapdragon Sense ID
technology reads your fingerprint even if it is
slightly dirty or wet. What's more? It can also
scans through glass, aluminium, stainless steel,
sapphire, and plastics.
If experts are to be believed, this particular
sensor can possibly outshine Apple's Touch ID.
However, they said that Qualcomm should further
information before the two technologies can be
properly compared.
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According to Qualcomm, the ultrasonic technology, often
used in professional biometric security applications,
"penetrate the outer layers of skin, detecting three-
dimensional details and unique fingerprint characteristics,
including fingerprint ridges and sweat pores." This can
make difficult for someone trying to copy your fingerprint
and break into your phone.
Qualcomm's Sense ID will be built into its new Snapdragon
810 and 425 chips, and will also be available as a separate
part. The initial devices using this technology will be
released later this year.
