Formed in the womb, each iris is a delicate interplay of shapes and colors, as unique as a snowflake. Unlike older techniques that scanned the inner blood vessels of the retina, iris scans do not require bright lights and are thus less intrusive.

When captured by a small digital device, the mathematical expression of the iris is the most detailed of any biometric technology. Comparing irises against a database can be done quickly and with a high level of accuracy. Iris scan technologies are especially effective for perimeter and access control, and are already in use in airports and other secure facilities, including for immigration and customs clearances in a number of countries. In the future iris data will be included on portable devices such as smart cards and used to authenticate identify at points of purchase or ATMs.