Microsoft announced that the latest version of its operating system will come equipped with Windows Hello and support finger, face and iris biometrics. If a system already comes with a fingerprint scanner it can automatically be enabled for the consumer to access the system, web sites or applications. Facial and iris recognition will require additional hardware.

GlobalSign debuted its Identity Relationship and Access Management solution designed to simplify the management of customer and partner identities and their access to e-Service and portals; Identiv Inc. announced that it has entered a partnership with 3M to integrate its readers into 3M’s MiY multi-factor authentication biometric devices; Zwipe has joined the aptiQ Alliance Program; 10Duke releases its cloud-based Identity-as-a Service product.

Tablets and handsets have become the go to devices for employee use, replacing desktop and laptop computers. Using the mobile device as an identity token is the dream for enterprises that may soon be realized. As more devices deploy biometrics, use near field communication and Bluetooth low energy, securing devices and using them as tokens is becoming a reality. Organizations are also working on standards that will make the ubiquitous mobile the token everyone owns.

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office in Florida deployed a solution that enables officers to capture and search fingerprints against state and national FBI databases from any location; Gemalto is providing multi-factor authentication to MOHELA, one of the largest student loan servicers in the U.S.; Authentify announced its xFA SecureCallCenter to help financial institutions fight fraud; ZTE announced that a flagship device will be launched with a eye-based biometric solution from EyeVerify; IDenticard announced the release of UBand Prox.

Fujitsu unveiled a prototype iris reader for smartphones and tablets. The systems uses LEDs to capture the iris and authenticate to devices by just looking at the screen.

Qualcomm Technologies Inc. launched a 3D fingerprint authentication technology based on ultrasonic technology; HID Global has partnered with Samsung to provide enterprises with physical access tool; ASSA ABLOY announced that it will license its Seos platform for mobile credentials; Gallagher released some news products that enable businesses of all sizes to go mobile; AGNITiO and Nok Nok Labs announced the availability of FIDO Ready products.

Entrust Datacard unveiled the new Datacard TruCredential Suite Software; NEC India Pvt. Ltd., NEC Corp. and Innovative Telecom & Softwares Pvt. Ltd., announced the deployment of NEC’s face recognition technology for Surat City Police; Côte d’Ivoire has selected Zetes for registration and the production of cards for 4 million health card cards; FIME and Thales have announced the launch of a joint offering for the host-card emulation (HCE) mobile services market.

In the last several years, there has been a focus on the safety and security of airports, as the challenges these facilities face are ever evolving. Despite tight security in and around the gate areas, airport facilities are by their nature open to the public – a fact that poses a major hurdle when it comes to physical security.