Apple fingerprint sensor patent points to biometric device integration

Engadget reports that Apple’s latest patent application has been successful. The patent deals with “fingerprint sensor” technology, the purpose of which have not been outlined. Many analysts believe its logical use would be in security and e-commerce applications such as Google Wallet.

Details of the patent describes the fingerprint sensor as a concealed window on the face of the device, opening and closing when prompted by users. This patent follows several others that Apple has applied for following the acquisition of AuthenTec in June 2012. A further development saw Australian “bio-security start-up” Microlatch, commissioned to design NFC-based technology for Apple. All these events would confirm beliefs that Apple will look to integrate this technology for its iDevices.

Biometric scanners have been around for ages now, but the technology’s potential has not been fully realised. With the steps Apple has taken up until now, it can be assumed that it will roll out this technology to the public in the near future. Soon, competitors will follow suit and Apple will have secured its position as perfecter’s of the fingerprint sensor.