Originally published on September 5, 2013
A Canadian company has developed a wearable authentication device that utilizes a user's electrocardiogram to validate a person's identity. The company launched a wristband called Nymi, which reportedly not only identifies people by their heart rate, but by the actual shape of their heartbeat.
Cardiologists have discovered that a person's heartbeat, affected by heart shape, size and position in the chest, is unique - just like fingerprints. However, unlike fingerprints, it is almost impossible to replicate a heartbeat.
The Nymi wristband has two electrodes that measure a person's heartbeat. To register their identity, users must touch the top electrode of the wristband for several minutes in order for the device to record the ECG signature. Once it's stored, it will only recognize that signature. Therefore, for authenticatication, users must place their finger on the top electrode for a few seconds for the device to cross-references the heartbeat. Once authenticated, the wristband can wirelessly unlock smartphones, tablets and cars. It may even be used to pay for shopping.
The wristband also has an integrated accelerometer and gyroscope, which allows users to use gestures to perform task-specific commands such as opening doors. It utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy, which has extremely low power consumption while maintaining a similar communication range as classic bluetooth technology. The wristband only works with paired devices. Once connected, it can vibrate and respond to notifications on another device such as new emails or text messages.
The company says the technology can also be embedded into other accessories, such as rings or belts.
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