New smart ring puts fingerprint biometrics to use

This smart jewerly has security literally wrapped around the finger. Created by US-based biometric security startup Tokenize Inc., the product, called Token ring, looks like a sleek sterling silver wedding band at first glance. But what makes the smart ring unique are the fingerprint scanner that verifies continuously the wearer's identity, and the optical sensor that tells if the ring has been taken off and if someone else is trying to wear it, thereby disabling all functions.

The device is NFC- and Bluetooth-enabled, and stores the owner's digital credentials, including credit card numbers, transit passes, workplace access codes and even passwords. This feature allows the unit to do contactless payments and unlock computers using two-factor authentication. The Token Ring also comes with a corresponding app for iOS, Android, MacOS and Windows 10, so it works practically with most personal gadgets.

The company said that it has already nailed down key partnerships to make all these functions possible. It is currently working with Visa and MasterCard to support tap-to-pay, and HID Global to allow wearers to use the ring to gain access to their offices. The smart ring is also already compatible with transit card scanners in 40 cities worldwide, with the number expected to rise to 60 by 2018.

In addition, the device is also designed to open cars with smart buttons and front doors provided that the vehicles' car plugs and the doors' deadbolts are made by the company.

The Token ring comes in three styles, the $249 brushed stainless steel, and the $299 black rhodium and 14K rose gold versions. The jewelry measures 9mm wide and 2.5mm thick. Size ranges from 6 to 12. The smart is also water-resistant up to 50m, meaning wearers do not have to take the ring off when bathing or swimming.

The Token Ring lasts two weeks on a full charge and comes with a wireless charging base. The first batch is expected to ship out this December.