Passwords for online banking, social networks and email could be replaced with the wave of a hand if prototype technology developed by Intel makes it to tablets and laptops.
Intel is working on sensors that could be implemented into laptops or tablets to scan the pattern of veins in a user’s palm to verify their identity.
The technology resembles the finger-print scanners found on some computers, but Intel believes this new method will be much more effective.
Speaking at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco last week, Sridhar Iyengar, director of research at Intel Labs said: ‘The problem with passwords – we use too many of them, their rules are complex, and they differ for different websites. There is a way out of it, and biometrics is an option.’
Iyengar demonstrated the technology, quickly waving his hand in front of a tablet but not touching it. Once the tablet recognizes a user, it can securely communicate that person’s identity to banks, social networks and other services where the person has accounts, he said.
The technology is still in the development stages but could soon be incorporated into consumer computers.
Intel are also looking at using an accelerometer to detect when a device is put down so it can automatically lock itself.
It is hoped that the software will be recognised by banks and social networks so that eventually all passwords can be scrapped.
Iyengar added: ‘We plan to work with service providers to take full advantage of this.’
The palm-reading technology, still under development, requires new software and biometric sensors built into consumer devices, but does not require the development of any new kinds of chips.