Contactless biometric technology is transforming security by offering hygienic, fast, and secure authentication methods like facial recognition, iris scanning, and voice recognition. The market, valued at $17.5 billion in 2024, is growing at 17.1% annually, with applications in airports, offices, financial institutions, and government facilities. Key drivers include AI advancements, post-pandemic hygiene concerns, and stricter cybersecurity regulations.
Key Highlights:
- Market Growth: Expected to hit $19.87 billion by 2025.
- Technologies: Facial recognition, palm vein scanning, and behavioral biometrics.
- Applications: Access control, border security, and financial fraud prevention.
- Benefits: Non-contact verification, improved security, and reduced maintenance.
AI-powered systems, multimodal biometrics, and continuous verification are shaping the future, while privacy concerns and data security remain critical challenges. Businesses and governments are rapidly adopting these systems for their accuracy and efficiency.
Current Trends in Contactless Biometric Technology
The world of contactless biometrics is seeing rapid advancements in 2025, fueled by cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence and the increasing demand for secure, efficient authentication methods. These innovations are transforming commercial security systems, with the market experiencing a notable 25% growth rate in adoption.
Three major trends are shaping this evolution: AI-driven facial recognition capable of performing under challenging conditions, multimodal systems that blend multiple authentication methods, and behavioral biometrics that enable continuous verification. Let’s delve into each of these trends.
AI-Powered Facial Recognition
Artificial intelligence has elevated facial recognition to a new level of reliability. Thanks to deep learning algorithms, systems now process massive datasets with remarkable precision, achieving accuracy rates of over 99% in practical applications. These systems excel even in difficult scenarios, such as poor lighting, low-resolution images, or when users are wearing masks.
A key innovation in this area is the use of advanced Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) algorithms. These algorithms, powered by AI, can distinguish real faces from spoofing attempts by analyzing subtle details like micro-expressions. Additionally, edge computing has emerged as a game-changer, processing biometric data directly on devices rather than centralized servers. This reduces latency and enhances privacy – an essential feature for environments like airports and retail spaces.
For instance, in April 2025, IDEMIA Public Security showcased the IATA Contactless Travel Directory at the Passenger Terminal Expo 2025. This system enables airlines to verify travelers through fully biometric processes, eliminating the need for physical contact. Similarly, in March 2025, the UK Parliament approved amendments allowing British citizens to use passport-free facial recognition at select border lanes, signaling strong government support for contactless biometrics.
Multimodal Biometric Systems
Multimodal biometric systems are stepping up security by combining multiple authentication methods into a single platform. Unlike single-method systems, these solutions integrate technologies such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and voice recognition, creating a layered approach that is both more secure and user-friendly. This combination makes it significantly harder for attackers to bypass, while also improving accuracy to over 99%.
Voice biometrics, for example, analyze speech patterns, tone, and rhythm to identify individuals and can even detect stress levels. In February 2025, the Smart Payment Association introduced biometric card interoperability specifications and established a working group to standardize enrollment processes. These efforts are paving the way for seamless integration of multimodal systems across various industries.
Behavioral Biometrics
Behavioral biometrics focus on continuous authentication by monitoring unique behavioral patterns . For example, gait recognition systems use cameras or wearable devices to analyze walking patterns, including stride, speed, and posture. These systems are particularly effective in dynamic environments like offices or factories, where passive identification is valuable.
In addition, typing patterns and other behavioral cues can help detect unusual activity, signaling potential unauthorized access without disrupting normal workflows. This technology is gaining traction in 2025, especially among remote and hybrid workforces. Mobile attendance apps now use smartphones for biometric check-ins, while field devices synchronize real-time data with HR systems to simplify attendance tracking and access management.
The market for contactless biometrics is projected to reach $19.87 billion by the end of 2025, reflecting the growing impact of these technologies.
How Contactless Biometrics Are Used in Security
Contactless biometric technologies are reshaping security measures in both commercial and government environments. These systems provide a non-intrusive way to verify identities while boosting both security and operational efficiency.
Access Control for Commercial Buildings
Many commercial buildings have adopted contactless systems to offer secure and hygienic access. Using edge computing, these systems process data directly on devices, reducing delays and minimizing the risk of breaches.
For high-security areas, multimodal systems are becoming the norm. These combine facial recognition with other methods like voice or iris verification. Advanced Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) algorithms further strengthen these systems by preventing spoofing attempts. This layered security approach ensures that even if one biometric factor is compromised, unauthorized access remains highly unlikely.
Companies like ESI Technologies specialize in integrating these contactless biometric systems into existing security setups. Their solutions include 24/7 monitoring and real-time alerts, ensuring that any unauthorized access attempts are immediately flagged. This seamless integration not only enhances security but also lays the groundwork for broader applications in government sectors.
Border Security and Government Facilities
Contactless biometrics are also making waves in border security and government facilities. These technologies help streamline processes like passenger verification while maintaining high levels of security. For instance, the El Paso Police Department uses a multimodal system that combines iris scanning, facial recognition, and fingerprint identification to bolster border security measures.
Globally, adoption is on the rise. In March 2025, the UK Parliament approved changes that allow British citizens to use facial recognition for passport-free travel in select lanes, signaling strong trust in these systems. Shortly after, IDEMIA Public Security showcased the IATA Contactless Travel Directory at the Passenger Terminal Expo, enabling airlines to verify passengers through a fully biometric process. These advancements reduce manual document checks, cut wait times, and improve overall security.
Canada has also embraced this technology, with facial recognition kiosks installed at airports. These kiosks combine facial recognition with fingerprint biometrics to speed up clearance procedures. Additionally, national digital-ID projects highlight how governments worldwide are turning to contactless biometrics for their reliability and efficiency in identity verification.
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Challenges and Best Practices for Implementation
Contactless biometrics offer enhanced security, but their successful deployment requires thoughtful planning. To make the most of this technology, it’s essential to address privacy concerns, meet regulatory requirements, and ensure smooth technical integration.
Protecting Privacy and Data Security
Biometric data is incredibly sensitive, and protecting it is non-negotiable. Unlike passwords that can be reset, biometric identifiers – like facial features or iris patterns – are permanent. To safeguard this data and maintain user trust, strong encryption and on-device processing are key. By processing biometric data locally instead of sending it to centralized servers, you not only reduce the risk of interception but also enable faster, real-time authentication at access points.
AI-powered Presentation Attack Detection (PAD) takes security a step further by identifying and blocking spoofing attempts, including those involving deepfakes. Regular security audits and transparent data policies are critical for identifying vulnerabilities and maintaining user confidence.
The regulatory landscape adds another layer of complexity, especially for U.S. businesses. Laws like Illinois’s Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and healthcare-specific rules like HIPAA demand informed consent, secure data handling, and clear retention policies. Additionally, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides guidelines, such as those in Special Publication 800-63B, for biometric authentication systems. A privacy-by-design approach – collecting only essential biometric data and storing it as encrypted templates – can significantly reduce privacy risks.
System Integration and Maintenance
Securing data is only part of the equation; integrating biometric systems with existing infrastructure is equally important. Standardized APIs and protocols help ensure that these systems work smoothly with access control, HR management, and surveillance tools. A phased rollout and rigorous testing can reveal compatibility issues early, minimizing disruptions.
AI-powered systems that adjust to environmental factors – like changes in lighting or weather – help maintain accuracy and reliability. Continuous monitoring and rapid alerting also play a vital role in keeping systems operational. Regular updates and maintenance, such as recalibrating sensors and updating AI models, are necessary to address wear and adapt to evolving user behaviors. Service agreements that include priority support and periodic inspections – ideally at least once a year – help sustain system performance.
Remote monitoring systems are another crucial component, as they can detect issues before they escalate. Quick diagnosis and resolution, either remotely or through dispatching certified technicians, minimize downtime. Ensuring that all installation and maintenance work is handled by certified professionals further enhances long-term reliability.
Conclusion
Contactless biometric technology has firmly entered the mainstream, with a global market that expanded from $17.5 billion in 2024 to an expected $38.08 billion by 2030. Companies across various industries are adopting these systems to enhance security, improve hygiene, and boost efficiency.
Key Takeaways
The rise of contactless biometrics marks a major transformation in how organizations handle security. Today’s facial recognition systems boast 99% accuracy even in tricky conditions, voice biometrics can identify accents and detect stress, and vein recognition provides highly secure authentication that’s nearly impossible to counterfeit. Multi-modal systems, which combine technologies like facial recognition, iris scanning, and behavioral analysis, offer layered protection that’s both effective and user-friendly.
These systems solve practical problems: they eliminate hygiene concerns tied to shared touchpoints, cut down on maintenance costs by reducing the need for consumables, and outperform traditional security methods like passwords and key cards in fraud prevention. With advancements like powerful on-device processing and seamless integration, contactless biometric solutions address both security and privacy needs.
AI-powered technology ensures that authentication is not just secure but also fast and hygienic. Successful implementation starts with clear data governance, phased rollouts to identify potential issues early, and ongoing maintenance supported by regular updates and expert care.
Real-world examples highlight this shift. In March 2025, the UK Parliament approved passport-free facial recognition travel for British citizens, and a month later, IDEMIA Public Security showcased the IATA Contactless Travel Directory at the Passenger Terminal Expo 2025. These developments underline how quickly contactless biometrics are becoming a standard part of security infrastructure, opening up opportunities for customized, professional solutions.
How ESI Technologies Can Help
ESI Technologies leverages these advancements to deliver expert integration of contactless biometric systems. With over 40 years of experience in security, their process begins with understanding your unique challenges – whether it’s biometric access control for office buildings, integrated surveillance using facial recognition, or comprehensive solutions that combine multiple forms of authentication.
"Our state-of-the-art access control systems ensure only authorized personnel can enter, with biometric scanners, key card systems, and more."
ESI Technologies specializes in custom installations that blend seamlessly with existing security setups. Their certified professionals assess vulnerabilities and design solutions tailored to your needs, whether that involves installing biometric scanners, setting up mobile-enabled access for a flexible workforce, or deploying HD surveillance systems with advanced analytics.
With 24/7 monitoring and support, ESI ensures your biometric systems remain reliable and effective. Their service agreements include regular inspections, quick issue resolution, and ongoing maintenance to stay ahead of evolving security threats. From retail stores and healthcare facilities to government buildings and industrial sites, ESI tailors every installation and monitoring plan to suit your specific requirements.
For businesses ready to explore contactless biometric technology, ESI offers free consultations and access control assessments to evaluate security needs and discuss implementation strategies. Their comprehensive approach includes installation, integration, maintenance, and support – delivering everything you need to safeguard your people and property with advanced biometric security.
FAQs
What privacy concerns come with contactless biometric technology, and how can they be addressed?
Privacy concerns surrounding contactless biometric technology typically focus on data security, unauthorized access, and the misuse of personal information. These systems rely on sensitive biometric data, such as facial scans or fingerprints, and mishandling this information could open the door to identity theft or severe privacy violations.
To address these risks, it’s crucial to use strong encryption techniques, store only the minimum data required, and comply with privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA. Companies should also maintain clear and transparent policies to inform users about how their data is collected, stored, and used. Taking these steps not only helps safeguard user privacy but also builds trust, allowing businesses to responsibly harness the advantages of contactless biometric systems.
How do multimodal biometric systems improve security over single-method systems?
Multimodal biometric systems use a combination of two or more authentication methods – like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning – to confirm a person’s identity. This layered strategy strengthens security by minimizing the risks of errors or fraud that can occur when relying on just one method.
By integrating multiple data points, these systems are better equipped to resist spoofing attempts and perform reliably in various conditions. For instance, if one method is impacted by environmental factors, the other can still verify identity accurately. This makes multimodal systems a strong option for applications requiring heightened security.
What challenges do businesses face when adopting contactless biometric systems, and how can they implement them successfully?
When businesses adopt contactless biometric technologies, they often face challenges like safeguarding data privacy, integrating new systems with existing infrastructure, and ensuring user acceptance. If these issues aren’t tackled early, they can make implementation more difficult.
To navigate these hurdles, companies should focus on strong data security practices – think encryption and strict adherence to privacy laws – to keep biometric data safe. Careful planning and rigorous testing during system integration can prevent compatibility problems. On top of that, clear communication and user training can build trust and make it easier for people to embrace the new technology.