LAS VEGAS – Jan. 8, 2007 – Today at the 2007 International CES in Las Vegas, Microsoft Corp. announced the availability of the Microsoft® Fingerprint Reader1 with software updates from DigitalPersona Inc., for Windows Vista™ compatibility, offering users the convenience of replacing their passwords with their fingerprint, and easily managing the import or export of passwords across multiple computers. These updates were designed for the Fingerprint Reader to make the user accounts in Windows Vista more convenient for individuals and families by eliminating the need to remember and type in account passwords when using features such as the new Parental Controls.
“This is an exciting time for PC users with the launch of Windows Vista, and we want to ensure that our products are enhancing the new operating system. We’ve added new features to our mice and keyboards, and the Fingerprint Reader is no exception, with updates to make Windows Vista features more convenient,” said Sean Butterworth, product marketing manager for Microsoft Hardware. “The Hardware team worked closely with DigitalPersona to enable password mobility and administration, which is a huge timesaver and something many customers have requested, especially those who will be making the move to Windows Vista this year.”
“DigitalPersona Password Manager 2.0 is the result of our ongoing collaboration with Microsoft,” said Vance Bjorn, CTO of DigitalPersona. “This update offers the latest fingerprint technology to consumers and utilizes the enhanced features in Windows Vista.”
Simplified Controls
Windows Vista offers users new features to help protect and personalize their computer: Using the new Parental Controls in Windows Vista, users can easily create a separate account for each family member and control which Web sites, programs and games each person can use and install. This helps users protect their family and keeps their computer running smoothly. The Microsoft Fingerprint Reader brings convenience at the touch of a fingerprint to complement these new Windows Vista features, and also allows users to quickly and easily log on to the PC, switch between users and access favorite online sites.
Manage and Port Passwords
Gone are the headaches and hassles of reloading individual passwords when switching machines or using multiple computers. The updated Fingerprint Reader coupled with the new DigitalPersona software allows users to manage password changes, save passwords to a CD or thumb drive, and take them to another computer.
Pricing and Availability
The Microsoft Fingerprint Reader is available now for an estimated retail price2 of $39.95.
About DigitalPersona
DigitalPersona is the leading provider of biometric authentication solutions for enterprise networks, developers and consumer OEMs. Founded in 1996, the company designs, manufactures and sells turnkey solutions that improve security and regulatory compliance while resolving password management problems. DigitalPersona’s fingerprint readers utilize superior optical fingerprint scanning technology to more accurately authenticate users regardless of finger placement. The company’s interoperable biometric software solutions uniquely support the industry’s widest array of notebooks with fingerprint readers in addition to its own line of optical placement readers. DigitalPersona’s award-winning technology is used worldwide by over 25 million people in the most diverse and challenging environments for fingerprint authentication.
DigitalPersona has strategic relationships with market-leading manufacturers and resellers including Dell Inc., Microsoft and GTSI Corp. DigitalPersona Pro, the company’s flagship turnkey security solution for enterprise authentication, is used by leading organizations such as the U.S. Department of Defense, Cargill, Telefonos de Mexico S.A. de C.V, (TelMex), United Bankers’ Bank and Sutter Health/CPMC. For more information contact DigitalPersona, Inc. at +1 650.474.4000, or visit http://www.digitalpersona.com/.
About Microsoft Hardware
For more than two decades, the Hardware Group has employed innovative engineering, cutting-edge industrial design and extensive usability testing to create products of exceptional quality and durability that enhance the software experience and strengthen the connection between consumers and their PC. Microsoft Hardware leads the industry in ergonomic engineering, industrial design and hardware/software compatibility, offering consumers an easier, more convenient and more enjoyable computing experience. Microsoft IntelliMouse® Explorer, which was launched in 1999, earned a place on PCWorld.com’s December 2005 list of “The 50 Greatest Gadgets of the Past 50 Years” as the first mainstream optical mouse that “brought gunk-free pointing devices” to a broad consumer base. More information about the Hardware Group is available at http://www.microsoft.com/hardware.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
1 This product is not a security feature and should not be used to replace passwords for accessing sensitive data, such as financial information, or for accessing corporate networks.
2 Prices are U.S. estimated retail prices. Actual prices may vary.
Microsoft, Windows Vista and IntelliMouse are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
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