Last year Google introduced a “Face Unlock” feature on the Galaxy Nexus in conjunction with the release of Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. While it had potential, it was bypassed easily by using a photo of the user to “trick” the phone into unlocking. Granted Google claims that Face Unlock is not the end-all of security for mobile devices, but without doubt facial recognition has its potential and it looks like Apple is thinking the same as well. This particular patent, discovered by the folks at Apple Insider, was not created by Apple, instead it belongs to a Swedish company called Polar Rose whom Apple acquired a couple of years ago.
The patent describes a more secure way of using facial recognition as a form of security and it basically involves identifying a person’s face by utilizing a 3D rendering. To set it up, it has been suggested that the user provide the system with more accurate renders of their face. This can be achieved with photos or videos that shows the user’s face from multiple angles. By using a 3D rendering as a means to identify an authorized user, it would be a more secure way and would prevent those looking to trick the system by using a photograph. Will this patent eventually make its way onto iOS devices or Mac computers? It’s hard to say but what do you guys think? Novelty or great potential?
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