Whether users are shopping online, checking e-mail or tracking frequent flier miles, the Internet delivers countless ways to connect with others and access information; however, it also requires countless passwords. Microsoft is introducing three new products that replace user names and passwords with fingerprint recognition technology. The new products enable people to log on to the PC, switch between users and access favorite online sites.

The fingerprint reader three products: Optical Desktop with Fingerprint Reader (US$109), Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer with Fingerprint Reader (US$84.95) and the stand-alone Microsoft Fingerprint Reader (US$54.95, pictured).


Microsoft Fingerprint Reader

The company is also unveiling two new versions of hardware products featuring additional Bluetooth profile support and longer battery life. Using the USB transceiver included with new Optical Desktop Elite for Bluetooth (US$159) or IntelliMouse Explorer for Bluetooth (US$84.95), people can wirelessly exchange and sync information between their PC and Bluetooth devices, including Windows Mobile based Pocket PC, mobile phones, printers, mice and keyboards, from up to 30 feet away.

The new Bluetooth desktop and mouse also feature some advanced scrolling capabilities with Tilt Wheel Technology and longer battery life than previous Microsoft Bluetooth products. As well as ridding desks of cables and clutter, these products add sleek style with a deep blue finish and a padded keyboard palm rest featuring the look and feel of leather.


Optical Desktop Elite for Bluetooth


IntelliMouse Explorer for Bluetooth

The new Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 introduces the following Bluetooth profiles:

Personal Area Networking (PAN). Enables IP connections over Bluetooth, client only.

Hard Copy Replacement Profile (HCRP). Enables printing

Human Interface Device (HID). Enables Bluetooth keyboards, mice, and joysticks

Dial-Up Networking (DUN). Enables Bluetooth mobile phones to work as modems.

Object Push Profile (OPP). Enables file transfers.

Virtual COM ports (SPP). Enables legacy programs to communicate with Bluetooth devices.