What are multimodal biometrics solutions?
When a given solution offers more than one biometric scanning option, it is referred to as multimodal. With such a broad definition, the term multimodal biometrics solution can refer to any technology that combines different types of biometrics, either to work together as a multifactor solution, or to allow a multitude of authentication options. Software that combines face and voice recognition, smartphones that offer access control via fingerprint or iris, futureproof biometric platforms ready to support and manage any single or multi-factor type of authentication—these all fall under the umbrella of multimodal.
There are a number of benefits inherent to multimodal biometrics, the most prominent being heightened levels of security and accuracy (in the case of multi-factor solutions) and greater levels of accessibility/flexibility. A banking app that uses both voice and face recognition to authenticate user login, for instance, is by nature more secure than either one of its used modalities alone (since the voice and face of the user both must match the stored templates). On the other hand, a multimodal physical access control solution that sports fingerprint and iris scanning is primed for all sorts of deployments, able to protect areas where fingerprints will do the job and also where hands might be obscured by gloves or dirt.
Where can I find multimodal biometrics solutions?
The areas of application for multimodal biometrics are as diverse as the technologies themselves. Recent developments in mobile technology have turned many smartphones into multimodal biometric authentication devices, so there very well could be multiple biometrics available in your pocket right now.
In terms of vertical markets multimodal biometrics technology can readily be found integrated into cloud platforms aimed at enterprise security markets, where versatility is an important factor for clients with unique deployment needs. It is also increasingly found integrated into mobile apps, particularly mobile banking software, as developers seek to offer strong authentication choices to customers regardless of the specific sensors built into their phone of choice.
Border control, national ID, high security physical access control, law enforcement and more—it is an ongoing trend we are seeing in 2016, that multimodality is becoming the dominant biometric paradigm across most vertical markets.
How are multimodal biometrics solutions changing the world?
Thanks to its multimodal nature, the USAA banking app allows users to login how they best see fit. Supporting fingerprint, face, and voice recognition biometrics, the app can even combine its modalities to add an extra layer of security.
THOR, a threat response platform used to secure US diplomatic facilities, uses iris and fingerprint biometrics.
A multimodal security system that leverages face, voice and physical behavioral biometrics was selected to protect Israel Diamond Exchange. All of the given modalities are contactless, and therefore offer the high level of security inherent in combining biometrics without slowing down operations.
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