STMicroelectronics launches biometric presence solution for low-power laptop security

STMicroelectronics has launched a biometric presence detection solution with output from its FlightSense Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor used by Intel’s Context Sensing to improve the security of data stored on personal computers.

In addition to the security benefits, ST says the new technology improves power consumption and user experience. The sensor is hidden behind the bezel cover glass of a laptop to monitor the user’s presence. When the user leaves, the ToF sensor detects the user’s absence and the system is locked and shifted into Windows Modern Standby low-power state. The ToF sensor runs in low-power autonomous mode to scan for the return of the user, and automatically log the user back in with facial recognition.

“By leveraging ST’s market-leading FlightSense Time-of-Flight ranging technology, the development of user presence detection brings extended battery life, improved data protection, and increased convenience to PC users,” says STMicroelectronics Executive Vice President and General Manager of Imaging Eric Aussedat.

The patented algorithm from ST distinguishes between a person sitting in front of the camera and an inanimate object without activating the more power-intensive webcam.

OmniVision recently launched a sensor for to implement facial recognition with Windows Hello on 2-in-1 laptops.

Article Topics

access management  |  biometric sensors  |  biometrics  |  data protection  |  laptops  |  STMicroelectronics