Frost: Gov't Use Spurs Growth in Iris Recognition Technology Sector

January 29, 2007 // Published as a news service by IHS

The need for global security, in combination with the mounting need for one-to-many (1:N) authentication has enabled iris recognition technology to gain a strong foothold in the security markets.

According to Frost & Sullivan, the falling price of iris cameras and the unique use of multimodal iris cameras are aiding this escalating deployment.

Recent analysis from Frost & Sullivan of the world iris recognition biometrics market found earned revenues of $31.4M in 2005, with estimates to reach $313.3M in 2013.

Wider deployment of iris recognition technologies should result in falling prices. Analysts said a recent boost in R&D has facilitated smaller cameras with higher processing speeds and a decrease in prices. Another factor promoting iris recognition technology is end-user preference, as its non-contact nature makes it seem non-intrusive and more hygienic.

"One of the most important events to occur in the iris recognition biometric market to date is expiration of the Flom Patent," said Frost & Sullivan industry analyst Sapna Capoor. "This has encouraged new entrants into the market. High accuracy levels for one-to-many (1:N) authentication for large-scale applications provided iris recognition technologies a distinct competitive advantage, in particular in the government sphere."

Analysts said iris recognition technology is suitable for everything from high security applications to restricted access sites across industries. However, the most significant impact is in the government vertical.

Iris recognition biometrics is the most suitable for 1:N authentication, and as a result, the government vertical prefers utilizing it for border control management. Analysts said the increasing need for tighter border and immigration control throughout the world, and the realization of projects - such as expedited passenger processing - expects to spur revenue growth in this marketplace.

"Nonetheless, a key project based on government subsidies, conducted in Andhra Pradesh, India, has set the precedence for the adoption of iris technology for government and law enforcement applications," said Capoor. "The aim of the project is to use iris recognition biometrics to control and manage the distribution of subsidized food and affordable housing to eligible individuals."

With Europe dominating the global arena of the iris recognition biometrics market, increased implementation in North America is likely to change market leadership dynamics. However, analysts said the Middle East and Asia Pacific regions are catching up fast, ensuring a positive outlook for this market.

Source: Frost & Sullivan.