Add a fingerprint scanner to your smart phone with this little device

Your fingerprint is probably one of the best way of securing your device, offering better than average protection that can be unlocked with a single touch. However such feature is only limited to high-end flagship devices that normally cost more than RM2,000.

If you want to add fingerprint security to your existing entry to mid-range device, here’s an interesting solution that was spotted at MWC 2015. It is a fingerprint scanning module that you can attach to your smart phone’s camera lens.

Roughly the size of a small USB thumbdrive, the Nurugo Fingerprint scanning module uses your phone’s camera for optical recognition. To keep it in place, they have a magnetic sticker which allows you to attach the module seamlessly. Since it requires a flash light, this probably means that their current module would be compatible with devices having its LED placement below the camera lens, like Mi 4, Redmi and Galaxy S4 as shown at their booth.

In terms of functionality, the Nurugo solution is unlocked with a single touch instead of the traditional swiping motion on standard capacitive scanners. However it is limited to 45 degrees angle instead of a full 360 degrees. Depending on which feels more comfortable, you can register your fingerprint at the angle of your choice. Since the Nurugo solution is optical based, it would still work even with wet or dirty fingers. The only gripe is probably the thickness it adds to your phone and also the trouble of taking it off each time you need to take a picture.

At the moment, Nurugo is looking for partners to distribute its fingerprint security solution worldwide. Perhaps some enterprising Malaysian companies might bring this in if there’s enough interest.