Ford is continuing to innovate in vehicle security and convenience with a newly published patent for a gesture-based virtual keypad system. Filed on April 1, 2024, and published on June 24, 2025, this patent outlines a futuristic method of keyless vehicle entry that could eventually replace the physical SecuriCode keypad currently available on many Ford models. This exciting development hints at a more cost-effective and streamlined way to access your vehicle without sacrificing security.

The proposed system eliminates the need for physical buttons by using cameras to recognize hand gestures on a virtual keypad projected onto the vehicle’s surface. This means drivers would still be able to enter their secure code to unlock their vehicle, but without the need for hardware that can wear out over time. The virtual system is designed to function just like Ford’s current keypad technology, maintaining familiar usability with an innovative twist.

One of the major advantages of this approach is reduced manufacturing complexity and cost. By removing the need for tactile keypads or expensive biometric sensors, Ford could offer a secure entry system that’s more affordable to produce and potentially easier to integrate across more models. Plus, fewer moving parts could lead to improved durability in extreme weather conditions.

This patent is just one of many ways Ford is exploring the future of vehicle access. With previous filings for heated keypads, biometric entry, and even window-integrated systems, it’s clear that Ford is committed to staying ahead of the curve in automotive technology. Whether this gesture-based system makes its way into production vehicles remains to be seen—but it certainly represents a promising look into what’s next.