Huawei Challenges Qualcomm Grip on Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensors with New Patent

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphone technology, one crucial aspect that continues to see significant advancements is biometric security. Among the various methods employed for secure authentication, fingerprint recognition stands as a cornerstone, offering convenience and reliability to users worldwide. Recently, Huawei made headlines by unveiling a patent for a groundbreaking “ultrasonic fingerprint” sensor, signaling a potential shift towards developing their own ultrasonic fingerprint technology to counter Qualcomm Monopoly.

This move could revolutionize the biometric authentication scene and redefine Huawei’s position in the competitive smartphone market.

How does biometric security work with fingerprint ?

Biometric security systems, such as those using fingerprints, rely on unique biological characteristics to authenticate individuals. Here’s a simplified explanation of how fingerprint biometric security works:

Image Capture: The process begins with capturing an image of a person’s fingerprint. This can be done using various devices like fingerprint scanners. This uses optical, capacitive, or ultrasonic methods to capture the fingerprint image.

Feature Extraction: Once the image is captured, the system extracts specific features from the fingerprint, such as ridge endings, bifurcations, and ridge counts. These features are unique to each person and form the basis of fingerprint identification.

Template Creation: The system uses the extracted features to create a digital template of the fingerprint, representing its unique features mathematically for comparison and matching purposes.

Database Comparison: When accessing a fingerprint-protected system, the system scans the individual’s fingerprint to create a new template, then compares it to those in the database. If a match is found, the system grants access.

Authentication: If the newly captured template closely matches any of the templates in the database within an acceptable threshold of similarity, the system authenticates the person as an authorized user. If there is no match or the similarity is below the threshold, access is denied.

Encryption and Security: To ensure security, systems encrypt and securely store biometric data. They store only extracted features or templates, not the actual fingerprint image, to prevent unauthorized access and reproduction.

How Does this work?

The patent, titled “Ultrasonic fingerprint recognition module, system and electronic device” (CN117058725A), showcases Huawei’s endeavor to innovate in biometric security. The patent number is CN117058725A, and the application date is July 4, 2023

Circuit Substrate: This is the base material on which the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is built. It contains various components and layers necessary for the functioning of the sensor.

Piezoelectric Layer: Piezoelectric materials generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress (or vice versa). In the context of a fingerprint sensor, the piezoelectric layer converts electrical signals into mechanical vibrations (transmission mode) and vice versa (receiving mode).

Pixel Electrode Units: These are the individual elements on the substrate that interact with the piezoelectric layer. Each pixel electrode unit consists of two types of electrodes: first pixel electrodes (N) and second pixel electrodes (M).

Credit: Official website of the State Intellectual Property Office

Connected State vs. Floating State:

In transmission mode, the N first pixel electrodes actively transmit electrical signals to the piezoelectric layer, inducing mechanical vibrations, while the M second pixel electrodes remain floating, not actively participating in the transmission process.

Receiving Mode: In this mode, both the N first pixel electrodes and the M second pixel electrodes connect with each other. This configuration allows for the reception of mechanical vibrations induced by the piezoelectric layer. The connected electrodes facilitate the detection and measurement of these vibrations, which contain information about the fingerprint.

Common Electrode: This electrode provides a reference point for the electrical signals within the sensor. It connects to one side of the piezoelectric layer, aiding in maintaining the electrical balance and stability of the system.

The controlled activation and connection of the pixel electrodes ensure proper signal transmission and reception, leading to reliable fingerprint recognition.

Overcoming Dependency : Huawei Vs Qualcomm

Currently, many phone manufacturers depend on solutions from companies like Goodix, which face restrictions due to Qualcomm patents.

Notably, Samsung’s Galaxy S10 was the first flagship smartphone to feature an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, albeit constrained by Qualcomm patents.

Huawei patent signifies a strategic move towards reducing dependency on qualcomm patents, potentially granting them greater freedom in innovation and differentiation.

This move aligns with Huawei’s broader strategy of vertical integration and self-sufficiency, empowering them to deliver cutting-edge devices with unparalleled security features.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Huawei’ patent for an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor represents more than just a technological breakthrough—it embodies a strategic vision aimed at redefining the dynamics of biometric security in the smartphone industry.