Biometric System Market Overview, 2023-28

In an increasingly digital world, security concerns have taken center stage. As traditional security measures face growing challenges, biometric systems have emerged as a cutting-edge solution that offers a unique blend of convenience and reliability. The biometric systems industry has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, transforming the way we authenticate, verify, and secure our identities. Biometric systems are advanced technological solutions that use unique physical or behavioral characteristics to identify individuals. These characteristics include fingerprints, iris patterns, facial features, voiceprints, palm prints, and even behavioral traits like typing rhythm. The fundamental principle behind biometric systems is that these traits are distinctive to each person and extremely difficult to replicate, making them an ideal tool for identity verification and access control. The evolution of the biometric systems industry is a testament to the relentless pursuit of secure and convenient identity verification methods. Over the years, this industry has transformed from a niche concept to a mainstream technology that shapes various aspects of our daily lives. Regulatory bodies across industries are pushing for stronger security measures to safeguard user data and prevent fraud. Biometric systems align well with these regulations, as they offer a higher level of security compared to traditional authentication methods. Regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the healthcare sector emphasize data protection, indirectly promoting biometric adoption.

According to the research report, “Global Biometric Systems Market Overview, 2023-28” the market is anticipated to cross USD 105 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 41.78 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 17.02% CAGR by 2023-28. In an era of escalating cyber-security threats and identity theft, the need for robust security measures is paramount. Traditional methods like passwords and PINs are susceptible to breaches, making biometric systems an attractive alternative. Biometrics offer stronger authentication by using unique physiological and behavioral traits that are challenging to replicate, significantly enhancing data protection. The global COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for touch-less interactions. Biometric systems, particularly those based on facial recognition and iris scanning, offer touch-less and hygienic ways to verify identity. This trend extends to contactless payment methods and secure access control in various settings, including healthcare, hospitality, and transportation. Also, smartphones have become an integral part of modern life, and their widespread adoption has created a natural platform for biometric systems. Fingerprint sensors, facial recognition cameras, and even under-display fingerprint scanners are becoming standard features in smartphones. This integration drives familiarity with biometric authentication and encourages its use across various applications.

The roots of biometric systems can be traced back to the 1960s when researchers began exploring the feasibility of using unique physiological and behavioral traits for identification purposes. Early experiments focused on fingerprints, hand geometry, and facial recognition. However, computational limitations and lack of sophisticated algorithms hindered widespread adoption. The 1990s marked a turning point for biometric technology. Advances in computing power and pattern recognition algorithms laid the groundwork for more reliable and efficient biometric systems. Fingerprint recognition gained traction as a viable option due to its relatively high accuracy and convenience. Government agencies and large organizations started to experiment with biometric access control systems. The early 2000s witnessed the commercialization of biometric technology. Fingerprint scanners and facial recognition systems began to be integrated into physical access control systems, replacing traditional methods such as PINs and keys. Biometric authentication was also explored for digital devices, with laptops and smartphones incorporating fingerprint sensors.

The 2010s saw a significant expansion of biometric applications in security and law enforcement. Facial recognition gained prominence in surveillance and criminal identification efforts. Government agencies worldwide started deploying biometric systems for border control and immigration management. Additionally, biometric time and attendance systems became more prevalent in workplaces. In recent years, biometric systems have transitioned from specialized use to mainstream integration. Smartphone manufacturers integrated fingerprint and facial recognition systems as convenient unlocking methods. Biometric authentication has become a standard feature in online services, reinforcing security and enhancing user experience. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), combining biometrics with other factors like passwords or tokens, has gained prominence for added security layers. The present era is marked by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), which have significantly improved the accuracy and reliability of biometric systems. Deep learning algorithms enable more robust facial recognition and other biometric modalities. These technologies have also facilitated the development of anti-spoofing techniques to counter potential attacks.

The biometric systems industry continues to explore new modalities beyond fingerprints and facial recognition. Iris recognition, voice recognition, palm print recognition, and even behavioral biometrics (such as gait and typing patterns) are gaining attention. However, with the increased use of biometric data, concerns about privacy, data security, and potential misuse have become more pronounced. Striking a balance between convenience and safeguarding user data remains a critical challenge. Looking ahead, the integration of biometric systems with Internet of Things (IoT) devices is expected to open new possibilities. Biometrics could be used to enhance the security of smart homes, connected vehicles, and wearable devices. As technology advances, biometric systems might become more seamless and less intrusive, contributing to a future where identity verification is both secure and unobtrusive. The versatility of biometric systems has led to their adoption across various sectors beyond security. Industries such as finance, healthcare, transportation, retail, and even government services are integrating biometric solutions for identity verification, access control, and transaction security. This diversity of applications fuels market expansion.

Based on the region, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is witnessing a rapid evolution of the biometric systems industry, driven by a combination of technological advancements, increasing security concerns, and a growing need for efficient identity verification solutions. Governments in the MEA region are investing in biometric systems to modernize public services and enhance security. National identity programs that integrate biometric data, such as fingerprints and iris scans, are becoming increasingly common. These initiatives facilitate accurate citizen identification, streamline service delivery, and prevent identity fraud. The MEA region's strategic location as a crossroads of global travel has led to increased focus on border security and immigration management. Biometric systems are playing a pivotal role in these areas, enabling authorities to accurately identify travelers and monitor movement across borders. Airports, seaports, and land border crossings are implementing biometric-based solutions to enhance security and streamline processes. Several cities in the MEA region are transforming into smart cities, integrating advanced technologies to enhance urban living. Biometric systems are being used for access control in smart buildings, public transportation systems, and even public services. These applications contribute to improved security and quality of life for residents.

Based on the product type, voice recognition technology has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, transforming the way we interact with devices, conduct transactions, and even access information. This technology, also known as speech recognition or voice command recognition, has found applications across industries, from consumer electronics to healthcare and automotive sectors. The growth of voice recognition technology is closely tied to advancements in natural language processing (NLP) and artificial intelligence (AI). Modern NLP algorithms and AI models enable systems to understand and interpret spoken language more accurately, leading to more seamless and natural interactions between humans and machines. Voice recognition offers unparalleled convenience by enabling hands-free interactions with devices and systems. This is particularly appealing in scenarios where manual input is impractical or unsafe, such as when driving or while cooking. The intuitive nature of speaking makes voice recognition a user-friendly option, enhancing overall user experience. Also, virtual assistants like Apple's Siri, Amazon's Alexa, Google Assistant, and Microsoft's Cortana have played a significant role in popularizing voice recognition technology. Smart speakers equipped with these virtual assistants have become common household items, driving familiarity and comfort with voice commands for tasks ranging from setting reminders to playing music. In healthcare, voice recognition has streamlined documentation and data entry for medical professionals. Physicians can dictate patient notes, reducing administrative burdens and allowing more time for patient care. Voice recognition also holds potential for remote patient monitoring and improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on the component, the hardware segment is expected to account for the largest share of the biometric system market in 2022. The growing demand for mobile biometrics devices, increasing focus on hardware-centric security capabilities, and increasing use of biometric technology in consumer electronics for authentication and identification applications are some of the factors driving the growth of this segment. In addition, the benefits associated with biometrics hardware, such as accurate identification, high performance, accountability, reliability, and high security & assurance, further augment the growth of this segment. Several providers are investing in R&D to improve the hardware capabilities and make them more affordable for small and medium-scale enterprises. Based on the functionality, the contactless segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The rising security concerns and hygiene issues among users due to touch-based systems are driving the faster growth of this segment. Also, the growing adoption of face recognition in the public and commercial sector, strong government initiatives, and the increasing adoption of contactless biometrics technology post the pandemic are expected to support the growth of this segment.

The biometric systems industry encompasses a wide range of authentication methods, including both single-factor and multi-factor authentication, to verify individuals' identities. These approaches offer different levels of security and are applied based on specific use cases and requirements. Single-factor authentication in the biometric systems industry involves using a single biometric trait to verify an individual's identity. The trait can include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scans, voiceprints, or palm prints, among others. This method is employed when a moderate level of security is required, and convenience is a priority. However, multi-factor authentication (MFA) in the biometric systems industry involves combining two or more authentication factors to establish a user's identity. Biometric traits can be used in conjunction with other factors, such as passwords, PINs, tokens, or location data. MFA provides an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple proofs of identity. In some cases, the biometric systems industry employs hybrid approaches that combine biometric authentication with other methods. For example, a user might provide their fingerprint scan along with a password to access a secure system. These hybrid approaches offer versatility and adaptability to different security requirements.

With the rise of online shopping and digital transactions, the need for secure and seamless payment methods is paramount. Biometric authentication offers a frictionless way to confirm transactions, reducing the reliance on passwords and PINs. As the e-commerce landscape continues to expand, biometric systems can play a pivotal role in enhancing payment security and user experience. The healthcare sector presents ample opportunities for biometric systems to improve patient identification, electronic health records management, and prescription dispensing. Biometric authentication ensures accurate patient data and reduces medical errors, while also facilitating remote patient monitoring and telemedicine applications. Enterprises are increasingly turning to biometric systems for enhancing workplace security and access control. From biometric time and attendance systems to secure access to sensitive areas within offices and data centers, the workplace security market offers substantial growth potential for biometric solutions. Also, airports, seaports, and land border crossings worldwide are adopting biometric systems to streamline immigration processes and enhance security. Biometric-based border control solutions offer efficiency in traveler identification and contribute to global efforts to prevent unauthorized entry and identity fraud. As vehicles become more connected and autonomous, biometric systems have the potential to transform the automotive industry. From in-car personalization to secure vehicle access and ignition, biometrics can enhance the overall driving experience while ensuring vehicle security. As the global population ages, there is an increasing need for healthcare solutions that cater to elderly individuals. Biometric systems can facilitate remote patient monitoring, medication adherence tracking, and emergency response systems for senior citizens.

Market Dynamics

• Digital Transformation and IoT Integration: The ongoing digital transformation has ushered in an era of interconnected devices and systems, facilitated by the Internet of Things (IoT). This interconnectedness creates both opportunities and challenges in terms of security and user experience. Biometric systems are positioned to play a pivotal role in this landscape, providing secure and seamless authentication across various touchpoints. From unlocking smart homes and vehicles to enabling secure transactions through wearable devices, biometric systems are at the forefront of enabling safe interactions in the digital ecosystem.
• E-Commerce and Mobile Payments: The proliferation of e-commerce and mobile payment platforms is opening doors for biometric systems to redefine online shopping experiences. Biometric authentication offers a convenient and secure way to authorize transactions, reducing the reliance on passwords and PINs. As the e-commerce market continues to expand, biometric systems can provide an extra layer of trust and security, helping prevent fraudulent activities and enhancing user confidence in digital transactions.
• Technical Challenges and False Positives/Negatives: Biometric systems are not immune to technical challenges. Achieving high accuracy rates and minimizing false positives (when authorized users are incorrectly denied access) and false negatives (when unauthorized users gain access) requires continuous advancements in algorithms and sensor technology. Striking the right balance between security and user convenience is a delicate task that demands ongoing research and development efforts.
• Multimodal Biometrics: The trend towards multimodal biometrics involves combining multiple biometric modalities (such as fingerprint, facial recognition, iris scan) for authentication. Multimodal biometrics leverage the strengths of each modality while mitigating their individual limitations. This approach enhances accuracy, security, and adaptability, catering to diverse authentication scenarios and user preferences.

Start-up Scenario

• Clear is a startup that focuses on using biometric technology, specifically iris and fingerprint scans, to enhance the airport security and screening process. Clear's platform allows travelers to bypass long security lines by using their biometric data for identity verification, providing a more efficient and secure travel experience.
• BioCatch is an Israeli startup that specializes in behavioral biometrics. The company uses advanced machine learning algorithms to analyze user behavior patterns during online interactions. This technology helps financial institutions and other organizations detect and prevent fraud by identifying anomalies in user behavior.
• Veridium is a biometric authentication startup that focuses on using mobile devices to capture and authenticate biometric data. The company offers solutions such as mobile face and fingerprint recognition for secure authentication across various industries, including financial services and healthcare.
• HYPR is a startup that specializes in decentralized biometric authentication. The company's technology enables users to perform biometric authentication directly on their devices, eliminating the need to send biometric data to centralized servers. This approach enhances security and privacy.
• Auraya Systems is an Australian startup that develops voice biometric solutions for various industries. The company's platform, EVA, offers voice recognition for secure customer interactions, authentication, and fraud prevention in call centers and customer service applications.

Key Companies

M2SYS Technology, Assa Abloy AB, Aware, Inc., Amano Corporation, BioEnable Technologies Pvt. Ltd., BioID, BIO-key International, Cognitec Systems GmbH, Daon, Inc. and Dermalog Identification Systems Gmbh.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Biometric System with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Biometric System market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions & Countries covered in the report

• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia)
• Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)
• Middle-East & Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa)

By Technology:

• Fingerprint Recognition
• Face Recognition
• Hand Geometry
• Voice Recognition
• Iris recognition/ Retina Recognition
• Signature Recognition
• Vein Recognition
• Others (Keystroke Dynamics, Gait Recognition, Earlobe Geometry & DNA Biometrics)

By Component:

• Hardware
• Software
• Services

By Functionality:

• Contact-Based
• Contact-less
• Hybrid

By Authentication Type:

• Single-Factor Authentication
• Multi-Factor Authentication

By Mobility:

• Fixed
• Portable

By End-Users:

• Government
• Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI)
• Military & Defense
• Consumer Electronics
• Healthcare
• Commercial Safety and Security
• Transport/Visa/Logistics
• Automotive
• Others

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organizations related to the Biometric System industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.