Iris recognition refers to the technology that identifies an individual through the photographing and verification of his/her eye. Iris recognition is a biometric technology and is also referred to as biometric security. Iris authentication is becoming increasingly popular as a security measure in industry, government, and military organizations due to its high degree of accuracy, safety, and simplicity (in terms of using it).

How does Iris Recognition Work?

Iris recognition combines pattern recognition, options, and computer vision technologies to authenticate an individual’s identity. First, the system takes a zoomed-in picture of the iris that a low-level light source illuminates. This image is then saved into a high resolution file and stored on a secure system database. Iris images do not have to be large to be effective, as many systems only use 512 bytes to store the image files. No direct contact with the eye is required and many cameras take suitable images 40 centimeters (approximately 16 inches) away from the person’s eye. In order to authenticate someone’s identity, a new image is taken and compared to those stored in the database. It takes as little as a few seconds to confirm a person’s identity.

Do Contact Lenses or Eye Glasses Interfere with Iris Recognition?

The short answer is no. If an individual undergoes a surgical procedure that is in the proximity of the iris, then he/she has to take a new picture for the iris recognition database in order to avoid potential problems authenticating his/her identity. The technology also works for the blind as long as they still have an iris to scan.

How Accurate is Iris Recognition?

Iris recognition technology is one of the most accurate individual authentication systems that exists today. No two irises have been found to be identical, including an individual’s right and left eyes. The iris’s characteristics also remain stable as it never ages, unlike other physical characteristics. Iris recognition compares more than 240 points on a person as compared to the 60 points compared on a person’s fingerprints.

Where is Iris Recognition Used?

Iris recognition technology is predominantly used for controlled physical access points. Research laboratories, nuclear facilities, government and military buildings, and airports are some places that have employed iris technology. The technology has been used in the commercial sector to replace standard locks and keys in hotels, replace atm cards, and even to serve as the “keys” to a car. These uses are still in the experimental phase. However, and are not widely used in society.