Galaxy S5 Adds Biometrics to Increase Security

Galaxy S5 Adds Biometrics to Increase Security

  • By Ginger Hill
  • Feb 25, 2014

Launched at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona and being released in early April, Samsung’s new water- and dust-resistant Galaxy smartphone, S5, provoked a round of applause from attendees.

Galaxy S5 Adds Biometrics to Increase SecurityWith a 5.1-inch, 1920x1080 display, S5 is pushing into “phablet” territory with this larger screen being housed in a larger chassis with a plastic backing.

Complete with a biometric fingerprint scanner to unlock the device as well as authorize online payments, Samsung has partnered with Paypal to offer payment-by-finger capabilities. It uses a unique encrypted key allowing Paypal to verify the customer’s identity. The S5’s fingerprint scanner also has the ability to store sensitive information accessible only by using the scanner and one of three fingerprints registered to the device.

The scanner sounds amazing, but just how safe is it?

Various media outlets are saying that this type of digital payment system could bring added security because devices would no longer have to store passwords or login details. But, remember that the iPhone 5s’ scanner had glitches that allowed the swiping of pet’s paws to gain access. (Sure hope “Rover” isn’t able to purchase things on a whim…might end up with a monthly $1,000 dog treat bill!)

This device has black-and-white mode that limits the power used by the device’s screen to save battery life and disables all but essential features, like texting and calling. And, the Galaxy S5 is healthy focused as it has a heart-rate sensor that tracks your pulse and provides info to S Health 3.0 to track steps taken and calories burnt.

The S5’s camera offers 16 megapixels on the rear camera and video capture of 4k resolution. It has a slow motion function, post-capture refocus selection and hybrid autofocus that is able to lock on in as few as .3 seconds.

It has been rumored that the S5 will use Tizen OS; however, for now, the Galaxy will be staying with Google’s system.

About the Author

Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.

Featured

  • Securing the Future

    Two security experts sit down with Security Today’s editor in chief Ralph C. Jensen to discuss what they see emerging and changing over the next several years along with how security stakeholders can harness these innovations into opportunities. Read Now

  • Collaboration Made Easy Using a Work Management Platform

    Effective collaboration between security operators, teams and other departments is critical to the smooth functioning of organizations. Yet, as organizations grow in complexity, it becomes more difficult for teams to coordinate with each other. This is compounded by staffing shortages, turnover and ineffective collaboration tools. Read Now

  • Creating a Safer World

    Managing and supporting locks and door hardware within a facility is a big responsibility. A building’s security needs to change over time as occupancy and use demands evolve, which can make it even more challenging. Read Now

  • Report: 78 Percent of CISOs Seeing Significant Impact from AI-Powered Cyber Threats

    Darktrace recently unveiled its 2025 State of AI Cybersecurity report. The findings reveal that 78% of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) surveyed say that AI-powered threats are having a significant impact on their organizations, a 5% increase1 from 2024. While an increasing number of CISOs report feeling a significant impact from AI threats, more than 60% now say that they are adequately prepared to defend against these threats, an increase of nearly 15% year-over-year. However, insufficient AI knowledge and skills and a shortage of personnel and talent continue to be listed as the two top inhibitors to a successful defense. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.