Shape recognition to come on iMac screen?

This Apple patent application involves something radically different, where it shows off an old-school iMac with a touchscreen display. Dubbed “Shape Detecting Input Device”, it was originally submitted a good half dozen years ago, with a continuation rolling out today. The more modern proposal involves a touchscreen display that not only functions as a pointer/input device, but also doubles up as a shape recognition device which will replace the key/lock system. Imagine someone placing a specially imprinted object on the display in order to verify one’s identity – now that’s pretty interesting. Of course, having that particular object stolen or lost could then prove hazardrous, but we’re sure other failsafe mechanisms in the system are in store including the traditional password request.