The Nymi bracelet could replace passwords and keys. The silicone bracelet detects the wearer’s heartbeat for authentication.
Sensors in the bracelet monitor the heart’s electrical activity, much like an electrocardiogram. The device supports Bluetooth 4.0, allowing for communication with smartphones.
As reported by Geek.com , the Nymi bracelet is compatible with Android , iOS, OS X, and Windows.
The bracelet is activated by simply pushing a button. It then detects the pattern of the wearer’s heartbeat. Once the user is verified, the Nymi can unlock smartphones and similar devices.
The Nymi has several protocols in place for security. It will not work unless it detects the user’s heartbeat pattern, and the user is close to the device being unlocked.
Bionym is offering the bracelets for a discounted $79 pre-order price.The discounted price is limited to the first 25,000 customers.
Once they go on sale in spring 2014, they will be $99 each.
The bracelets are interesting, and certainly useful. However, Bionym has even bigger plans for their “wearable authentication devices.” They are currently discussing collaboration with companies like Samsung and Tesla.
In the future, they would like to offer consumers the option of operating smart appliances, or even their vehicles , with the bracelets. The bracelets are capable of detecting gestures, so the possibilities are endless.
As reported by CNET , the developers expect later versions to unlock vehicles , control thermostats, and tune radios or televisions.
The flexible silicone bracelets come in a variety of colors, including black, red, and white. They have one control button, which is silver. They also include an LED light and a tiny vibration device, which indicate when the bracelet is active.
When the bracelet is removed from the wrist, it turns off automatically.
Other products, such as the NFC ring, offer similar features. However, the Nymi bracelet is especially secure. As heartbeat patterns are unique, they cannot be duplicated.
[Image via Flickr ]
