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

  • March 18, 2026 - Liteline Presents ATTRACKT - New Product Webinar - March 31, 2026

    Liteline Presents: ATTRACKT – New Product Webinar – March 31, 2026

    Join Liteline for the launch of ATTRAKT, a low-voltage magnetic lighting system designed for modern spaces. ATTRACKT’s compact, refined form factor delivers exceptional flexibility, with fixtures that can be easily positioned and reconfigured to suit evolving lighting needs. With versatile modules and connectors to create customized layouts, ATTRACKT provides a clean, modular solution that elevates… Read More…

  • March 3, 2026 - Leviton - Certolux Visioneering (Viscor) Announces Walter Lai as New Purchasing Manager

    Leviton – Certolux Visioneering (Viscor) Announces Walter Lai as New Purchasing Manager

    Leviton – Certolux Visioneering (Viscor) is excited to welcome Walter Lai CSCMP to the team as Purchasing Manager! Walter brings over 20 years of expertise in purchasing, inventory management, and supply chain operations. His strong background in supplier management, cost optimization, and leading cross-functional teams will be a tremendous asset as they continue to strengthen… Read More…

Design

  • CSC LED: Why Blue Light at Night Is a Problem & How Amber Optics Solve It

    CSC LED: Why Blue Light at Night Is a Problem & How Amber Optics Solve It

    Outdoor lighting plays a critical role in safety, visibility, and security—but not all light is created equal. In recent years, increased awareness around blue-rich white light has raised important questions about its impact on human health, wildlife, and the night sky. As municipalities, designers, and property owners look for better solutions, Amber Optics are becoming… Read More…

  • RENO Lighting Highlights Rittal Canada Lighting Project

    RENO Lighting Highlights Rittal Canada Lighting Project

    It’s great to see projects grow from one phase to the next! RENO Lighting has partnered with Rittal Canada to supply lighting for their new office and warehouse. As the renovation continues, they are proud to showcase the next step in their transformation. From industrial environments to modern workplaces, each phase requires thoughtful lighting design… Read More…

New Products

  • NEXLEDS: 3CCT Post Top Light – NX-3PT-150W-X-DV-A-Y

    NEXLEDS: 3CCT Post Top Light – NX-3PT-150W-X-DV-A-Y

    NEXLEDS provides an efficient and adaptable lighting solution with the 3CCT Post Top Light. This fixture offers high luminous efficacy, IP65, as well as power tunable and CCT switchable options, granting enhanced visibility, security and safety in exterior spaces. The 3CCT Post Top luminaire is ideal for applications such as parking lots, walkways, campuses, and… Read More…

  • Dals: Boulevard Architectural Linear Collection

    Dals: Boulevard Architectural Linear Collection

    Dals Boulevard is more than a fixture, it’s a complete architectural system. A single, disciplined line of light moves effortlessly from ceiling to wall, from interior to exterior, creating continuity across every space it touches. One system, expressed four ways, unified by proportion, performance, and purpose. Available in standard 120V or multi-voltage configurations (120, 277,… Read More…