In efforts to boost security, Microsoft just announced a brand new feature called Windows Hello. The new security tool will come with Windows 10, and it uses facial recognition technology. Users can access their laptops and personal computers with an iris scan or fingerprint read.
Since most computers do not come with all the technology needed for facial recognition technology, it won’t be a feature targeted to the mainstream. It will be used primarily used by businesses and government agencies. Windows Hello won’t rely on a web camera for facial recognition because the photos are not usually secure enough. Microsoft will employ infrared cameras instead.
Microsoft looks at innovative technology
Facial recognition is possible with a low-grade camera. Google already allows Android phones to become unlocked with facial recognition. However, it is not the most secure. The tech giant even warned users that anyone with a photo of the phone’s owner (or someone that looks like the phone’s owner) can easily unlock the device.
Microsoft strives to make computer safety a priority and it hopes to meet the strong security standards needed for government agencies with Windows 10. Microsoft claims Windows Hello feature 1 in 100,000 false accept rate. It is also much safer than a password, something that is easily hacked or stolen.
Microsoft values security
Even though Windows Hello is for businesses and government agencies, the average PC user can use it if they want.
Microsoft’s special security feature is not the only new addition to come with Windows 10. The company debuted a feature called Passport, and it allows users to log into apps or networks without a password. The tech giant said Passport, is accruing a nice number of apps but declined to share the exact number. Microsoft hopes to end the use of passwords with Passport but passwords will still be needed if a user logs in from another non-Windows device such as the Apple iPad.
