Recent reports suggest the Galaxy Note 7 may feature an iris scanner as a new form of security biometrics and a new leak has surfaced to back up the rumors. A blog called Price Raja shared screen caps that it claims are from a Galaxy Note 7 handset, which show the iris scanner feature within the device’s settings.
The setting shows a fingerprint being set at the security feature and asks for a backup passcode. Though the languages on the screen caps are Korean and Chinese, reports indicate the third option, next to setting a PIN number, is to use an Iris scan.
Tech blog SamMobile first reported about the Galaxy S7 featuring an Iris scanner in May, when Samsung’s trademark listings for the terms “Samsung Iris” and “Samsung Eyeprint” surfaced. Since then, renders of the Galaxy Note 7 have surfaced, sporting extra sensors , leading pundits to believe one of many of said sensors may be used for iris scanning. However, at this time the rumor remains unconfirmed by Samsung.
The blog notes that Samsung recently launched the Galaxy Tab Iris tablet for government and businesses in India, which features an iris scanner. It is possible Samsung developed the technology for cases outside of the mass market; however, the manufacturer is known for testing features on less common devices before bringing them to flagship products.
Meanwhile, there are also new rumors surrounding the operating system the Galaxy Note 7 will run out of the box. Often, upcoming Android devices are rumored to feature the upcoming software. However, a user agent profile discovered by Hungarian tech blog Napiroid suggests that the Galaxy Note 7 (model number SM-N930A) will run Android 6.0.1. Marshmallow.
The claim is also unconfirmed, but it makes sense, according to Samsung’s usual release cycle. Typically Samsung releases its Galaxy Note devices before Google releases its new software for the year. New Galaxy Note devices are usually among the first Samsung smartphones to receive an update to the latest OS. The Galaxy Note 5 shipped with Android 5.1.1 Lollipop before Android 6.0 Marshmallow released; the Galaxy Note 4 shipped with Android 4.4.3 KitKat before android 5.0 Lollipop released, and so on.
Google is expected to release its upcoming Android N much sooner than its usual October to November launch period. The tech giant recently indicated it will announce the full name of Android N in coming weeks. However, it remains unknown if the Galaxy Note 7 will be announced before Android N. The smartphone is expected to be unveiled in mid-August.
