From manufacturing to sales based on a proprietary iris recognition algorithm
Blocking authentication using artificial intelligence by extracting data from iris images

The newly unveiled iPhone X features facial recognition. Samsung also equipped the Galaxy Note 7 with iris recognition . Now, fingerprint recognition is used not only to unlock smartphones but also for door locks.

Unlike fingerprint recognition, which has the disadvantage of being easily deformed and forged, the iris is formed of the most complex and sophisticated fibrous tissue in the human body, making authentication forgery difficult; furthermore, since both eyes have different patterns, it can be used to verify identity.

Irience is a company that develops and manufactures iris recognition-based products, and has created access control systems and management programs based on iris recognition algorithms.

Irience's iris recognition algorithm features a fast frame rate for extracting iris features and enables accurate 1:N matching. It allows for the registration of all iris information regardless of color, and because it stores data extracted from iris images rather than video footage, it blocks authentication using photos, videos, or artificial intelligence. The company has developed an ultra-small iris recognition module and is commercializing the product.

'Eye Master' is an embedded iris recognition access control system that registers both eyes and operates in a contactless manner. Authentication is possible even when wearing glasses or contact lenses, and since it simultaneously captures and records facial images as well as iris images, it can be utilized for access control or security.

It supports both stand-alone and server authentication methods and can store 30,000 irises. Authentication is completed in one second by bringing both eyes to the display from a distance of 40 to 45 cm.

To verify if authentication was actually fast, I asked if I could save my iris. I simply entered my ID and showed my face on the display, and it was registered. The image captured during registration was also saved, allowing me to compare it with the image taken during authentication.

When asked if authentication is possible in dark places, the CEO of Irience stated, “Authentication works better in dark environments. Since it recognizes the pattern and color of the iris, it is best to perform the test in a slightly dim semi-outdoor environment rather than outdoors where sunlight reflects.”

Iris recognition access control systems are currently being used to verify patient identity at five veterans' hospitals nationwide, and are also being used at the headquarters of Korea Electric Power Corporation and the Gyeonggi Creative Economy Innovation Center.

There are also commercially available portable iris recognition devices. The IRISKEY 3 connects to PCs and laptops via USB for personal security. The IRIS SQUARE is a product that connects to smartphones. A software management program is also provided. Multiple devices can be managed centrally from a single server, and since daily user records are stored, it can also be utilized for attendance management. It is also supported via a smartphone app.