AuthenTec’s new TouchStone packaging technology enables new watertight cell phone that leverages the Power of Touch

TouchStone-packaged sensors are based on TruePrint technology, AuthenTec's unique solution that reads below the surface of the skin to the live layer where a person's true fingerprint resides.

AuthenTec’s (NASDAQ: AUTH) TouchStone fingerprint sensor packaging technology now enables future generations of waterproof cell phones, including a new phone to enter high-volume production in the fourth quarter of 2008. This new smooth, durable and waterproof packaging technology is AuthenTec’s newest fingerprint sensor packaging alternative for today’s leading cell phone manufacturers. Millions of today’s mobile phones include an AuthenTec sensor to enhance privacy by securing the device’s personal and corporate data (e-mail, photos, contact lists, etc.), provide advanced navigation functions and support secure m-commerce.

“AuthenTec once again leads the way with innovative fingerprint sensor technology for a new generation of waterproof handsets that leverage the waterproof properties of our new TouchStone packaging, as well as the many features of our Power of Touch offerings,” says Art Stewart, AuthenTec vice president of Wireless Products. “Our ultra-durable TouchStone technology will help our customers further differentiate their product offerings by combining our award-winning TruePrint fingerprint sensor technology with robust waterproof packaging to create a new segment of secure waterproof cell phones.”

The leading cause of cell phone returns not covered under warranty is damage from exposure to excess moisture or immersion in water or other liquids. Cell phone returns spike every summer due to accidental drops into swimming pools, Jacuzzis, lakes or oceans. Driven by consumer demand for more rugged water-resistant designs, leading cellular handset manufacturers including Casio, Fujitsu, LG, and Toshiba have introduced waterproof cell phones, many of which are capable of submersion in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes.   AuthenTec’s TouchStone package allows for easy integration into various waterproof industrial design configurations that provides the durability and water resistance required for this new class of handsets while adding Power of Touch features including security, convenience, personalization and navigation.

AuthenTec’s TouchStone is a durable, thin profile fingerprint sensor packaging technology which expands aesthetic and product integration options for makers of cell phones, laptop computers, and other consumer electronics. TouchStone enables a new class of fingerprint sensors that combine all the features of AuthenTec’s patented TruePrint technology with thin, durable, easy to integrate, waterproof packaging for today's stylistic cell phone designs. 

Unlike all other semiconductor components embedded within a cell phone or other consumer electronic device, fingerprint sensors must be durable enough to withstand the common wear and tear experienced on the outside of the phone. TouchStone technology extends the already proven durability of AuthenTec sensors by tripling the protective coating over the fingerprint sensor die. 

TouchStone-packaged sensors are based on TruePrint technology, AuthenTec's unique solution that reads below the surface of the skin to the live layer where a person's true fingerprint resides.  This unique subsurface approach enables AuthenTec sensors to read virtually every fingerprint, every time -- a critical requirement in any fingerprint-enabled device. TouchStone technology also combines AuthenTec’s TrueNav menu navigation features, TrueFinger anti-spoofing security, and TrueMatch pattern matching to ensure the industry's highest level of security, usability and convenience.

For more information about TouchStone technology, please visit the AuthenTec's website at www.authentec.com/touchstone.html.