Nokia envisions fingerprint-reading cellphone displays

Cellphones with built-in fingerprint scanners aren't exactly revolutionary, but a recent patent application filed by Nokia could foreshadow mobile displays that recognize and react to biometric inputs. More specifically, the technology would see a touch-sensitive user interface that could allow / deny access or morph depending on what user swiped their finger. Moreover, a mysterious "visual display cursor" is also referenced, which would seemingly allow the device to bring important applications / lists / etc. to the screen's forefront depending on the preferences saved for each fingerprint. As always, it's a mystery as to when something like this will actually go mainstream, but we certainly dig the sound of it -- even when written in totally incomprehensible patent app lingo.

[Via CellPassion]

[Delvis343 @ Dec 3rd 2007 4:54PM]

Sounds awesome!

[Matthew Hilario @ Dec 3rd 2007 5:01PM]

crap this one has fingerprints all over it.

[murray @ Dec 3rd 2007 5:15PM]

I'm actually kind of surprised that most high-end cellphones don't already have fingerprint readers.

[Wwhat @ Dec 3rd 2007 5:23PM]

More suited for guns/tasers perhaps?
Make a db of cops and disallow any of them to use any taser :D

I'm jesting of course, I prefer freedom and less biometrics, even for cops.

[ft @ Dec 3rd 2007 5:44PM]

Cool. Technology is catching up to Hollywood.

[Michael Tyznik @ Dec 3rd 2007 6:04PM]

What I think would be really interesting is if you could use different fingers on your own hand to bring up different menus, etc. Like I could tap with my pinky to speed-dial my mom. Or Dr. Evil.

[Reader @ Dec 3rd 2007 6:04PM]

A biometric chastity belt would be pretty cool.

[chris joseph @ Dec 3rd 2007 9:48PM]

And we succumb to yet another privacy invasion for the convenience of cool gadget interfaces.