Patent Explains How the Samsung Note 7’s Iris Scanner Could Work

It seems like the entire tech world is eagerly awaiting the announcement of Samsung’s new Galaxy Note 7.

Why? Well, the phone manufacturer’s newest flagship is expected to have a variety of new, innovative features — including an iris scanner.

Samsung currently has a patent pending regarding the triple-camera system that would make the iris scanner work, according to Patently Mobile.

“In various embodiments, the iris recognition system employs three lenses to capture the image signal, and then checks the iris of the user based on the image generated as well as other information,” the Samsung patent states.

The three-lens system will work by using a first lens with a narrower field of focus to capture images of the iris. A second, wider-field lens will capture an image of the user’s face. The phone will then check these against already recorded images to ensure they match, according to Android Authority.

The patent also mentions a lighting device that could direct a beam of infrared light onto the iris, aiding the phone in capturing an image.

If the images don’t match — for any reason — the phone will notify the user to try again via voice message.

The iris scanner could be used in various security functions, such as unlocking the phone, inputting a password for an app, or initiating mobile payments — essentially replacing the fingerprint scanner available on many of today’s top smartphones.

While iris scanners have a long history of never making it onto smartphones, there’s evidence to suggest that they are more accurate and more secure than fingerprint scanners, according to Computer World.

The Galaxy Note 7 is rumored to be announced on August 2, and could be released shortly thereafter.