Future Ford Keyless Entry Keypads Could Use Biometric System
Future Ford Keyless Entry Keypads Could Use Biometric System
Posted on November 2, 2024
Ford Motor Company is pushing the envelope with new technology in vehicle access, recently filing a patent for an innovative keyless entry keypad featuring a biometric system according to Ford Authority. This fresh approach to keyless entry was filed on April 29th, 2022, and recently published on October 15th, 2024, under serial number 12115936. The idea builds on Ford’s existing keyless entry technology, but with a significant upgrade that could offer a more secure and user-friendly way for drivers to enter their vehicles without needing a physical key or mobile device.
Ford's factory-installed keyless entry keypad, a beloved feature for many Ford owners, has become less common in recent models, although it remains available as a dealer-installed option. However, the recent patent filing suggests that Ford is committed to evolving the concept. This new patent joins other Ford innovations in keyless entry, including patents for NFC key cards, window-based keyless systems, and even facial recognition entry methods. Together, these patents hint at Ford’s vision for a future where physical keys are optional, and vehicle access is both convenient and secure.
The newly filed biometric keypad offers similar convenience to traditional keyless entry keypads but with an added layer of security. Ford’s design addresses potential security concerns with biometric data by using an advanced authentication method. Once a recognized fingerprint or biometric signature is detected, an authentication token private key challenge is triggered, adding a safeguard to the system. This approach aims to protect personal data and prevent unauthorized access, a crucial enhancement in today’s data-conscious world.
This enhanced system could use a variety of biometric inputs for verification, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or even voice data, making it adaptable to different user preferences and security needs. As biometric technology becomes more mainstream, from airport security to smartphones, Ford's new patent underscores the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive innovation. If realized, this advanced keypad could provide Ford drivers with a seamless yet secure way to access their vehicles, marking another step forward in Ford's ongoing efforts to make driving more convenient and secure.