Precise CMO Fredrik André gives his view on how the biometric tech industry is evolving:

Traditionally hardware-centric, the biometric tech industry is now rapidly transforming into a software-driven ecosystem. While hardware continues to improve, the software revolution is accelerating even faster, fueled by innovation, AI, the speed of adoption, and the rising demand for complex, scalable solutions – outperforming hardware in driving industry advancements.

Why the Shift?
Here are the driving forces behind this fundamental change:

1. AI and Innovation
AI has become the cornerstone of biometrics, as in many other fields, driving both efficiency and innovation to new heights. AI and advanced algorithms not only enhance capabilities but also outperform specialized hardware, taking the lead in delivering exceptional performance on widely available devices while countering sophisticated threats.

2. Cost Efficiency and Scalability
Software solutions are inherently easier to update, integrate, and scale across segments and devices, making them a cost-effective and flexible choice compared to hardware-dominated systems. While success still depends on a seamless and well-integrated combination of software and hardware, the center of value creation has shifted decisively to software vendors.

3. Demand for Multi-Modal and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
As security needs grow, software-centric models excel in supporting multi-modal systems (e.g., fingerprints, facial, and palm recognition) and MFA, combining ease of use with the highest possible security – all without requiring extensive hardware upgrades.

4. The Push for Contactless, Intentional, and Private Solutions
The pandemic highlighted the growing demand for hygienic, contactless biometric solutions, driving increased reliance on software innovations to address these needs. Simultaneously, evolving technology and user expectations have elevated privacy, intentionality, and usability as critical priorities in the development of biometric systems.