Amazon Files Patent Application for Non-Contact Biometric Identification System

The US Patent & Trademark Office recently published Amazon’s patent application for a non-contact biometric identification system that uses a hand scanner to generate infrared images of a user’s palm. The scanner is so precise that it can detect surface characteristics such as wrinkles and even deeper characteristics such as veins.
While filing an application does not mean Amazon will definitely develop such technology, if the biometric identification system is released, it will likely first be used in the company’s “Amazon Go” stores. Currently, shoppers visiting Amazon Go cashless stores must use an app to enter the store. This new biometric technology would require shoppers to simply scan their hands to enter, and the technology could be used for future applications in libraries, hospitals, offices, and other retail stores.
This futuristic way of identifying users would be an improvement over more traditional systems of identifying users which, according to the patent, are vulnerable to fraud, speed, accuracy, and operational limitations. The system also avoids physical contact between a user’s hand and a scanning device, which can be unsanitary and pose a public health risk in heavy-use environments.
However, this new method of identifying people using biometrics raises data privacy concerns, an issue currently causing legal troubles for the company.
Author: Megan Brooks
Authors
Expertise
Insights
-
Intellectual Property Litigation
Fallout from Trade Secret Theft in Taiwan
As reported by Reuters, three former employees of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company ("TSMC") were charged with violating security law and other offences in Taiwan. The prosecutors have… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
U.S Appeals Court Sends $81 Million Award Against Boeing Flying Back In!
As reported by Reuters, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals has reinstated an $81 million award against Boeing, in a suit brought by Zunum Aero, an aircraft startup, accusing Boeing of stealing trade… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Carrot Puff Copycat: Copyright Infringed in Federal Court of Australia Case
As reported by Mason Hayes & Curran, the Federal Court of Australia has reportedly found the supermarket chain, Aldi, liable for copyright infringement regarding illustrations used on the… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Carnegie Hall Takes Trademark Center Stage in Legal Battle
Carnegie Hall has reportedly commenced an action against Carnegie Diner and Café for trademark infringement.In its complaint filed with the United States District Court, Southern District of New York… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Federal Court of Appeal Reiterates Permissive Approach to Granting Leave to Amend Defective Pleadings
In Bell Canada et al. v. Millennium Funding, Inc. et al., 2025 FCA 153, Bell Canada and Bell Aliant (collectively, “Bell”) appealed an order granting the Respondents’ (collectively, “Millenium… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Under the Radar, Over the Counter: Goyard's Quiet Battle Against Fake Luxury
Goyard, the Parisian brand established in 1853 and still privately owned, has reportedly faced a surge in counterfeit bags flooding the market. The company refrains from advertising, avoids e-commerce…