Your heartbeat is your new password

AS THE password goes the way of CDs, vinyl records and dinosaurs, one new technology emerging as a front runner to replace it is literally a heartbeat away. 
 
While some technology companies have toyed with fingerprints, iris recognition and even brain waves, a Canadian-based company called Bionym is bringing out a wristband sensor which detects the user's heart rhythms.

Called the Nymi, it works on the basis each individual has a unique heartbeat which is even more difficult to replicate than fingerprints, iris or face recognition.

To be used in logging onto a computer or unlock a car door, the small bracelet is equipped with a sensor that reads the electrocardiogram (ECG) of the wearer via their pulse.

To register, the user touches a sensor on top of the wristband for about two minutes.
Once the device recognises the heart signature belongs to the registered owner, it can authenticate access to an unlimited range of electronic devices, including hotel room doors, home security systems, pads and tablets and sensitive data systems.

Once the ECG rhythm is stored, the Nymi will recognise only that unique signature.

The system communicates via Bluetooth to an app running on a designated device.

Once on the wrist, the Nymi can be used to wave over a car lock, swipe an ATM and a home alarm system.

The wristband will also be capable of emitting sounds or vibrations, alerting wearers to email or social media messages that will appear on a small LED screen.

The Nymi's launch price starts at $79 and are expected to remain under $100.

First editions will be compatible with iOS, Android, Windows and Mac OS X devices.

A promotional video for the Nymi shows someone gliding from bed to airports to hotels to cafes, effortlessly logging into devices and unlocking doors without once having to enter a password or procure a key.