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Nokia files patent application for handset with fingerprint-scanning display

Categories: FCC, Nokia, Research, Technologies
By: , IntoMobile
Tuesday, December 4th, 2007 at 2:47 PM

Nokia files patent application for display to double as fingerprint scanner

Here’s yet another novel patent application from Espoo. Finnish handset manufacturer, Nokia, has filed a patent application for a handset that uses a fingerprint scanner as a means of determining which user profile to display or verify security. But, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill fingerprint scanner. No, this patent application outlines a method to leverage a touch-sensitive display to pull double-duty as a fingerprint scanner. Nokia seems to be seting the stage to include more and more interesting features in its upcoming touch-based handsets.

Nokia envisions a handset that would change its user interface depending on which user’s fingerprint was identified by the scanner – basically morphing the handset to a particular user’s preferences. Of course, the scanner could also be used to verify the user’s identity for security purposes. And, Nokia even makes provisions for the use of a “visual display cursor” to launch applications or features that are linked to a particular finger. Web browser? No problem, just scan your right middle-finger. Text messages? Simply scan your left ring-finger.

Sounds pretty cool to us, we just hope Nokia has plans to implement this technology in future handsets. Oh, and sooner would be better than later.

USPTO source

[Via: CellPassion]

About The Author

Will Park

Will hails from The City of Angels - Los Angeles, California. He spends his time playing with his numerous gadgets and looking forward to seeing what future holds for mobile technology. An avid promoter of a fully "digital" life, he promotes the widespread adoption of truly mobile, paper-less living. He dreams of the day when he can go completely digital. No more snail mail, paper receipts, bound books, notepads/spiral notebooks, credit cards, hard currency. He's a digital warrior - fighting for the converged life. He is an idealist and a realist - he has a perfect view of what the world should be but knows that the world is not perfect. Can we ever hope to see Will's dream become reality? We'll see...