Synaptics integrates fingerprint reader in laptop trackpad

Synaptics integrates a fingerprint reader into the trackpad of a laptop with its new product SecurePad. Users can use this to log in directly to, for example, internet services with a fingerprint, without the need for a password.

Currently, mainly business laptops contain a fingerprint reader integrated into the housing that users have to slide their finger on. Market leader in trackpads Synaptics makes these obsolete by integrating the reader into the touch-sensitive surface for operating the mouse pointer.

SecurePad consists of a small surface of 4mm by 10mm on the trackpad, in which the sensors are located. The fingerprint reader can be integrated into any existing Synaptics trackpad product. It would make no difference to operation from which angle the user puts his finger on the surface and optionally LEDs could light up when used. Communication between the sensor and the processors is encrypted.

Synaptics has based SecurePad on the FIDO standard released Tuesday. Public key cryptography is based on this and the private key based on biometric data therefore remains on the device used, while the public key for online verification is on a server. Of the laptop manufacturers, Dell and Lenovo support the FIDO Alliance, so there is a chance that at least they will integrate SecurePad into laptops. In addition, Google, ARM, Microsoft and Samsung are also part of the alliance. A year ago, Synaptics acquired Validity, developer of fingerprint sensors, and this seems to be the first result.