Osram First to Market with LED for Unlocking Smartphones

Osram Smartphones

Osram is making smartphones even smarter: infrared light emitting diodes (IREDs) from Osram Opto Semiconductors will enable owners of Fujitsu Limited’s Arrows NX F-04G smartphone to unlock the device with an iris scan. This smartphone, which is currently only available in Japan, is the first in the world with this functionality.

Secure methods for unlocking cell phones and tablet computers are gaining in importance because these devices are being used more and more for sensitive applications such as online banking and online shopping. In addition to fingerprint scans, many manufacturers are now considering iris scanning. This new biometric unlocking method involves illuminating the eye with infrared light. The camera on the smartphone simultaneously takes a picture of the iris in which characteristic features are then identified. So far, the Osram IREDs are the only ones capable of the high power needed for iris scanning from a compact package.

The Oslux SFH 4780S has a wavelength of 810 nanometers (nm). This enables the iris scanner to identify iris patterns for all eye colors – brown, blue, green and gray – with a high degree of reliability. The light source is also extremely efficient so does not involve an unnecessary drain on mobile device batteries. For having developed the IRED, Osram Opto Semiconductors was recently presented with the 2015 Kaiser Friedrich Research Award.

 

Related Articles

Changing Scene

Design

  • Omnify: 7 Common Light Panel Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

    Omnify: 7 Common Light Panel Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

    You’ve invested in premium LED light guide panels for your retail display or commercial project. The specs looked perfect. The samples were gorgeous. But now? Something’s off. Maybe the lighting is uneven, or panels are starting to fail way before they should. Here’s the thing, most LED light guide panel problems aren’t manufacturing defects. They’re… Read More…

  • Legrand: The Benefits of DMX Lighting in Modern Commercial Spaces 

    Legrand: The Benefits of DMX Lighting in Modern Commercial Spaces 

    DMX lighting is a powerful control protocol originally developed for theaters and entertainment venues, but its reach has expanded far beyond the stage. Today, DMX is increasingly used in commercial, educational, healthcare, and architectural environments to create dynamic, color-rich, and adaptable lighting experiences. Where traditional lighting systems focus primarily on on/off and dimming control, DMX… Read More…

New Products

  • RENO Lighting: Aerolux – Adaptive Area Light with Field-Adjustable Distribution

    RENO Lighting: Aerolux – Adaptive Area Light with Field-Adjustable Distribution

    Meet the Aerolux Series—a sculpted area light with on-site adjustable distribution, delivering precise, adaptable illumination across a range of applications. With a slim, curved profile and durable die-cast aluminum construction, Aerolux combines refined design with lasting performance and durability. One fixture. Multiple configurations. No compromises. Aerolux reduces SKU complexity while increasing on-site flexibility, and is… Read More…

  • LEDVANCE: SYLVANIA TruWave Technology

    LEDVANCE: SYLVANIA TruWave Technology

    TruWave Technology is a lighting technology developed by SYLVANIA. It provides the closest possible lighting experience to natural light by mimicking the natural light spectrum. Natural light is the most common light source in daily life, and it helps regulate body clocks and improve mood and focus. However, in indoor environments, the amount of natural… Read More…