Using biometrics to unlock doors and devices is not new. We've had fingerprint and facial scanners for years and have become the standard lock for most phones. Now, palm reading systems are also entering security systems, and Philips is taking advantage of the touch-free tech.
Philip's Smart Deadbolt 5000
The company did not miss the chance to present its latest smart lock device, the Smart Deadbolt, which doesn't require any form of touch or handling to be unlocked. The device will merely scan your palm to verify you.
The way it works is that it detects the patterns on your hand through Palm Vein Recognition. You can also choose to use a PIN code if you prefer, as well as a mechanical key, the Home Access app, or the auto-unlock feature.
For visitors or others who wish to enter your home, they can use the doorbell that's positioned at the bottom of the keypad. It automatically lights up when it detects a person, reminding guests that they can ring the doorbell to let you know that they're there.
It has built-in Wi-Fi so you can connect to the bolt using the Home Access app, meaning that you won't have to get up to open the door. It's capable of storing 50 palm IDs for people you trust, as well as 100 user PIN codes.
It only has the capacity for one master PIN code, in case you want to deactivate the others and only want one working code. If you want to allow a guest to only enter once, you can provide them with a one-time PIN code, which as described, will become useless once used.
You can set the one-time codes through the Home Access app and will be enabled in real-time. As for scheduling, you can set a PIN code that only works during certain hours of the day and set it as a recurring code.
From the inside, it can detect when you're reaching for the door knob or lever, meaning that you won't have to unlock it every time you choose to go out. You'll have to enable the feature as it is disabled by default.
Palm Recognition is Not Unheard Of
Palm scanning technology is not new. Amazon is already using the very same technology in its Whole Foods stores. You can use the palm-scanning technology as part of Amazon One to pay for your purchases in over 500 stores in the US.
Through Amazon One, your Amazon account and payment information will be linked to your palm print. Once that has been arranged, you can hover your hand over the scanner at Whole Foods and it will automatically charge you.
It's a convenient way to verify your age as well, which prevents minors from buying alcoholic drinks. There are over 200 stores across California, New York, Texas, and many other states that already support this contactless payment method, according to The Verge.
Restaurants like Panera Bread and travel retailers like Hudson, CREWS, and OHM are also taking advantage of the technology for easier identification. Amazon One, specifically, is also offering its services to other businesses like casinos and stadiums.
