James Bond-type functionality might soon be a reality thanks to AOptix, a company based in California, which adds hardware and software to the iPhone to convert into a biometric scanner. The Pentagon, too, wishes to avail of similar mobile technology which considerably reduces the bulk associated with other biometric equipment. Sources like Danger Room have revealed that the company is even being payrolled by the Pentagon via a $3 million contract. It involves adding on a piece of hardware called Stratus, which is fitted on the iPhone as an external cover and adds around one and a half inches in thickness, 3 inches in width and 6 inches in length. The software is extremely user friendly for existing iPhone users.
Using Stratus is very simple and requires simple commands like loading the app and tapping the screen for iris scans or to recognize faces. Thanks to the software, the camera focuses and takes the shot on its own accord. However, the fingerprint scanning device is placed on the additional hardware itself rather than on the phone’s touchscreen. Adding notes for the data collected is easy and similar to most iOS text-based apps. The app also boasts of an e-mail function that allows the consumer to create a database. The open-nature of the system allows Stratus users to create their own add-ons.
According to Amanda North, AOptix’s vice president of marketing, the Stratus software will not be cheap. While the company hasn’t yet disclosed how much the hardware costs, the software is set to go on sale for $199, thus essentially making the application not-so consumer friendly. Also, this app is available only for the iPhone 4 and the iPhone 4S and doesn’t yet cater to iPhone 5 users. The company has chosen to remain silent on the future of this application in terms of upgrades and enhancements.
Sources say that these apps are mostly sourced from AOptix by the U.S. Government’s various bodies. Reports also suggest that AOptix chose iOS rather than Android because of its high security standards when compared to the cheaper and more popular Android. While Stratus may never be seen in the market due to its expensive software and peripherals, it sets a whole new bar for biometric technology as it can now easily be accessed even by the common man.
