Fingerprint sensor SDK targets Android phones

AuthenTec Inc. has unveiled its new software development kit (SDK) for fingerprint sensor applications on Android mobile phones that can be accessed from the company's website. It enables developers to produce applications around the smart sensor's capabilities such as fingerprint authentication, secured mobile transactions and user customization.

Developers can start working on applications for the world's first Android phone to use the smart sensor, the Motorola ATRIX. AuthenTec's Developer Community has access to the company's support tools, design and evaluation kits and select technical material that help members get their offerings to market quickly. Members include the leading providers of software, reference designs and end-user applications as well as network operators/service providers. They will have the opportunity to display their fingerprint-enabled app on AuthenTec's Web store as well as partner channels. Developers can also learn more about writing fingerprint-enabled applications for the Motorola ATRIX by visiting MOTODEV, the Motorola Developer Network.

"With the proliferation of Android smartphones, we see a tremendous opportunity for developers to apply their creativity to applications that leverage the convenience and security of AuthenTec fingerprint sensors. Developers now have a platform to create truly unique apps for the newest input device for smartphones—fingerprint sensors—and open a new world of features," said Art Stewart, AuthenTec VP of smart sensor solutions. "We look forward to partnering with the developer community to offer what we expect to be a growing base of fingerprint-enabled Android smartphones an exciting portfolio of apps that improve personalization and security functionality of our sensors for remote access, games, personalized apps and other features that have yet to be imagined."

Along with the availability of the SDK, AuthenTec has recently updated its Android Mobile application, DataDefender, to support the fingerprint readers found on the Motorola Atrix. The updated DataDefender application allows users to conveniently protect access to Android applications, text messages, email, photos and other personal information with a single swipe of a finger over an AuthenTec smart sensor, added the company.