Fingerprint scanners to launch apps, manage passwords

Taiwanese software manufacturer EgisTec is showing a product here at CES that lets you use your laptop's built-in fingerprint reader to launch applications, manage passwords and encrypt files. EgisTec BioExcess also lets you scroll internet pages and office documents using four-way navigation.

At first sight the software is simple: swipe your finger across the fingerprint reader, and if you are the owner of the PC you are able to boot up. But BioExcess offers more - you can set up five different profiles (assuming you have five fingers).

The interface to set up the profiles is simple and intuitive. Simply swipe your finger and perform the necessary action. We watched an EgisTec staffer launch IE and log in to her Gmail account. She also encrypted files with a single swipe of her digit, and launched applications in a similar style.

EgisTec said that BioExcess will launch in retail in the UK early in 2010. For PCs without fingerprint readers, EgisTec will also offer a USB hardware reader device.

EgisTec describes itself as a 'provider of fingerprint biometrics and data encryption',and provides software to several leading PC manufacturers.