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.
With 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.