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Datastrip and Image Metrics announce partnership

Datastrip, the UK-based specialist in 2D bar code technology, and Image Metrics, have formed a partnership to enable a face biometric to be held within a 2D bar code and reconstructed in photo-realistic form on a handheld device.

Image Metrics has developed a novel and unique core intellectual property 'Optasia', which uses an advanced statistical modelling technique to interpret images. Optasia's face reconstruction module enables a face to be encoded in as little as 400 bytes - leaving enough storage capacity for other biometrics. The photo-realistic quality achieved during reconstruction allows manual verification of identity where required.

Datastrip's 2D bar code allows users to store large amounts of data in a compact, machine-readable, tamper-proof code. The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has selected Datastrip technology as a standard for machine-readable travel documents such as passports and visas.

"The partnership will enable Image Metrics' technology to be distributed by the existing worldwide network of organisations that utilise the Datastrip 2D bar code and reading devices," comments Dick Clark, vice president of Image Metrics Security Business Unit.

Steve Blackmore, managing director of Datastrip adds "Optasia's face reconstruction module offers Datastrip something truly unique. The applications for this ability will be truly global, and allow the use of the facial biometric in an easy to use, low cost environment - truly enhancing the security of identity related information".

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