News

Xilinx,Pixel Velocity to deliver biometric technology

November 28, 2004

SAN JOSE, Calif. - Xilinx Inc., a leading programmable logic supplier, and Pixel Velocity, an image processing solutions company, announced a collaboration to provide advanced 3-D facial recognition technology. Using the advanced features of Xilinx Virtex-II Pro FPGAs, Pixel developed the biometrics technology to replace 2-D technology in applications such as airport surveillance cameras and travel kiosks in airports, according to a news release.

Biometric facial recognition technology is currently available in a few select airports. More than 28 countries have mandated facial recognition technology be in place by 2007. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is requiring the top 20 U.S. airports to install biometric technology pilot programs.

"Facial biometrics are resistant to changes in skin tone, hair color, or facial hair. The technology actually measures the underlying structure of the face, the bones and muscles that identify who we are," said David Bloom, solution manager at Safe-Travel Airport Security Company in Detroit. "Because the technology is so non-invasive, 3-D facial recognition will ultimately compete with current identification technology throughout our lives. You will begin to see this technology replace your PIN number at the local ATM, your photo ID at work and ultimately retail purchases, just to name a few."

Labeled one of the top ten emerging technologies by MIT Technology Review, biometrics is primed for growth. According to the International Biometric Group, global biometrics revenues are expected to reach $4.6 billion by 2008, with $800 million specifically in facial recognition revenues.