Contactless biometric access control

Issue 1 2022 Access Control & Identity Management, Products & Solutions

The Covid-19 pandemic created substantial disruption and brought the world to a standstill. In the two years that has passed since the virus was first detected, we have adjusted to a ‘new normal’ where the need to wear facemasks, test regularly, social distance and disinfect surfaces are a part of everyday life.

Touchless technologies are paramount in limiting the spread of pandemics. Since 2019, the security industry’s need for contactless access control devices has accelerated. Today, innovations allowing contactless fingerprint and facial recognition technologies are replacing current security systems, thus reshaping the industry and enabling corporate security departments and their suppliers (consultants, system integrators, etc.) to adopt new attitudes and expectations.

While the pandemic may have influenced the rapid adoption of touchless technologies, at IDEMIA, we believe that contactless biometric-powered access control technology is the way forward – delivering unmatched security as well as a frictionless user experience during the pandemic and beyond.

Solving every day security challenges

Looking beyond the pandemic, contactless biometric devices address the everyday challenges faced within the security industry. For security directors, managers and their ecosystem of partners, being able to authenticate and verify users with legitimate access securely while adhering to privacy and data protection regulations is essential. When it comes to authentication, the use of biometric technology is very reliable and enables a high level of security. Contactless biometric solutions are also fast, meeting the needs of high throughput buildings or work places. This key aspect increases user convenience, allowing people to avoid queues, which is a key advantage at peak times.

Latest generations of contactless biometric access control devices

Throughout 2021, the demand for contactless technologies remained very high and this upward trend is expected to continue. For this reason, IDEMIA launched a new generation of MorphoWave, a contactless fingerprint terminal that scans and verifies a user in less than one second through a quick and simple hand wave gesture. As a fully touchless solution, MorphoWave offers a frictionless and hygienic experience to users.

When IDEMIA began working on its latest generations of contactless fingerprint scanners, user convenience combined with the highest level of security was the aim. Since 2016, IDEMIA has continuously invested in MorphoWave technology, with a focus on improving ergonomics, speed and accuracy to leverage the latest advancements in AI.

Launched earlier this year, MorphoWave XP and MorphoWave SP are the latest devices among a portfolio of other access control biometric devices. They are both designed to enable fast, secure and barrier-free biometric authentication.

MorphoWave XP X-tended Performance is recommended for large projects with demanding requirements. Keeping the nature of these types of projects in mind, MorphoWave XP is designed to work fast, allowing up to 60 users per minute and up to 100 000 user records with a high level of accuracy. It provides a 20% increase in performance compared to the previous generation by leveraging IDEMIA’s latest algorithm improvements, rewarded in the latest NIST evaluations. This version also offers a large colour tactile screen for user interaction and time and attendance use cases.

Designed to make unique contactless technology more accessible to customers, MorphoWave SP Simplified Profile has a simplified interface and is ideal for smaller ‘mainstream’ projects. This device allows up to 40 users per minute and up to 10 000 user records.

Facial recognition and access control

IDEMIA has also developed VisionPass, an advanced facial recognition terminal which is an alternative to contactless fingerprint scanning. This state-of-the-art device combines high-end 2D, 3D and infrared cameras with AI-powered algorithms to provide a highlevel of performance.

VisionPass enables a near-motion 1-second verification through multiple angles and in all light conditions. It is fully effective with face masks and also provides a mask detection functionality to enforce mask-wearing policies. As the main objective of a biometric terminal is to increase security, VisionPass’ liveness and anti-spoofing mechanisms are fully resistant to photo presentation attacks by intruders. IDEMIA’s terminal is the only one on the market to have passed the iBeta lab’s Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) level 1 and level 2 anti-spoofing evaluation with 100%.

With VisionPass, security managers and directors can therefore ensure a high level of security for their premises and a safe and convenient end-user experience.

Although the pandemic has escalated the growth of contactless technology for security, IDEMIA’s many years of experience with these solutions ensures that customers receive a high-end product suitable for many needs.


Credit(s)




Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page



Further reading:

From wireless alarms to smart homes
Elvey Security Technologies Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Products & Solutions
The final brand SMART Security Solutions features in its discussions with companies operating in South and southern Africa’s detection and alerting technologies market is DSC, distributed in the region by Elvey Security Technologies.

Read more...
The AX Hybrid PRO Series offers reliable wired and wireless protection
Hikvision South Africa Editor's Choice Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Products & Solutions
Hikvision has announced the launch of a new AX Hybrid PRO alarm system with innovative Hikvision ‘Speed-X’ transmission technology. This system offers reliable wired protection while delivering expanded flexibility with seamless wireless integration.

Read more...
Advanced Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems
XtraVision OPTEX Technews Publishing Modular Communications Perimeter Security, Alarms & Intruder Detection Integrated Solutions Products & Solutions
Making full use of fibre installations around the perimeter by adding Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems means you can easily add another layer of security to existing surveillance and fencing systems.

Read more...
New State of Physical Access Control Report from HID
HID Global Editor's Choice Access Control & Identity Management News & Events
HID released the 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report, identifying five key trends shaping access control's future and painting a picture of an industry that has been undergoing considerable transformation.

Read more...
Smart intercoms are transforming access control
Access Control & Identity Management Products & Solutions
Smart intercoms have emerged as a pivotal tool in modern access control. They provide a seamless and secure way to manage entry points without the need for traditional security guards to validate visitors before granting them access.

Read more...
Supercharge surveillance with AXIS Camera Station Pro
Surveillance Products & Solutions
Designed to put efficient surveillance at users’ fingertips with an intuitive interface that is easy to operate, AXIS Camera Station Pro 6.2 provides a customisable video management and access control solution for companies of all sizes.

Read more...
Easy, secure access for student apartments
Paxton Access Control & Identity Management Surveillance
Enhancing Security and Convenience at Beau Vie II Student Accommodation, a student apartment block located at Banghoek Road, Stellenbosch, with Paxton's access control and video management solution

Read more...
Invixium acquires Triax Technologies
News & Events Access Control & Identity Management
Invixium has announced it has acquired Triax Technologies to expand its biometric solutions with AI-based RTLS (Real-Time Location Systems) offering for improved safety and productivity at industrial sites and critical infrastructure.

Read more...
ControliD's iDFace receives ICASA certification
Impro Technologies News & Events Access Control & Identity Management
The introduction of Control iD's iDFace facial biometric reader, backed by mandatory ICASA certification, underscores the commitment to quality, compliance, and innovation.

Read more...
The future of workplace access
HID Global Access Control & Identity Management
Mobile credentials are considerably more secure than physical access control, because they eliminate the need for physical cards or badges, support multiple security protocols, and add layers of protection on top of basic card encryption.

Read more...