Synaptics today announced its third-generation Natural ID fingerprint technology, which can now read fingerprints through even thicker glass.
Synaptics says the FS4500 sensor can identify fingerprints through glass, ceramic buttons, and recessed cover glass up to 300μm thick, which will let hardware companies hide the fingerprint sensor out of sight. Synaptics’ second-generation Natural ID fingerprint tech was limited to glass no greater than 200μm thick.
The FS4500 includes other mobile-focused features, including a single voltage power supply; enhanced navigation capabilities; the ability to control two ‘soft keys’ with the fingerprint sensor; system-level security via ultra-fast TLS-secured communication; and a USB interface for simple PC integration.
Synaptics believes its improved technology gives device makers even more freedom to create phones and tablets that don’t have buttons cluttering up the design. Synaptics says it is already sampling the FS4500 sensor and expects to begin manufacturing in volume during the fourth quarter.
