The use of biometrics in many areas of life has been prevalent for some time now but the pandemic changed the way citizens around the globe regard biometric devices. Concern for hygiene was on the rise and facilitated the mainstream adoption of biometric technologies. From malls to airports and digital financial services, paperless and contactless experiences became the norm. This impact is still felt today as the world has shifted to fully embrace the use of biometrics in everyday life.
Electronic services
The pandemic saw an increased demand from everyone to opt for essential services from the comfort of our homes. This paved the way for widespread use of biometrics of 4 types: for detecting faces, fingerprints, irises and voices. For instance, renewing our identify proof and different types of official documentation has shifted to operating remotely instead of showing up in person and waiting in queues.
Prioritising hygiene
In a time when contactless temperate checks and automated sanitizer dispensers grew in popularity, biometric was the missing piece of the puzzle that fit snugly into the post-pandemic fabric of the world. Technological solutions that don’t require touch have been revolutionizing everyday activities and are only predicted to become more novel. They are preferred today to traditional methods as touchless mechanisms spell more hygiene.
Traveler-friendly technology
The boom of biometrics in the last few years began in the travel industry and especially from airports that had to screen thousands of passengers flying in and out of countries daily. Airports even started offering online facilities to bag items for checking in and pre-paid options to do away with long lines. This ease was reflected in other industries soon when international governments extended it to a larger area.
Replacement to touch-activated mechanisms
Biometric technologies have also significantly reduced the waiting time as many places now offer touch-free services that were previously unimagined. Everything from pickup, delivery to check in and automated kiosks have replaced manual labor. Whether it’s for making a deposit at the bank or buying a movie ticket, digital solutions and biometrics play a role in simplifying the process. Offices have also digitalized visitor management with the help of biometric and done away with touch-enabled access protocols.
Evolving tech
As biometric tech evolves, there is also a need for inclusivity in facial, fingerprint, retinal and vocal detection. Biometric companies around the world are meeting the demands of citizens to ensure there is no discrepancy in detection across ethnicities, gender identities and ages. For all these reasons, biometrics has created a paradigm shift in the way we envisage our interaction with machines.
The article has been published by the editorial board of the Identity Herald. For more information please visit www.identityherald.com.
