[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] Chinese researchers have proposed a new biometric authentication technology that uses earbuds to unlock devices based on a user’s heartbeat.

According to IT outlet TechRadar on May 21, research teams from several Chinese universities named the technology “AccLock” and said it could be extended into an “Ear ID” concept following Touch ID and Face ID.

The core principle is that earbuds detect subtle biological signals from the wearer, identify an individual’s unique heartbeat pattern and authenticate the user based on it. The researchers suggested it could unlock a range of devices including smartphones, PCs and smart door locks. A key feature is that authentication is possible through ordinary wearing, without separate action inputs.

The technology is drawing attention because it can be implemented without a dedicated heart-rate sensor. The researchers conducted tests using Apple AirPods and self-made earphones, and said they confirmed the possibility of operation on Apple ecosystem devices. They added that the structure is not tied to a specific manufacturer and has versatility that can be applied to various wireless earbuds.

AccLock uses an accelerometer instead of a sensor that directly measures heartbeats. An accelerometer is a component that detects acceleration, vibration and changes in direction. In existing earbuds it is used for gesture recognition, head-movement tracking and spatial audio functions. While some low-priced products may not include it, the researchers judged that the range of applicability is wide because it is included in most commercial earbuds.

The research team stressed that it chose earbuds because they are worn closely integrated with the user’s body for long periods in daily life. Because they are often worn continuously even when going out, the team said they are suitable for use as an authentication device and can enable biometric-based authentication without adding a separate wearable device.

The technology is still in the research stage, and it has not yet been decided whether it will be commercialised or when it would be applied. The industry is paying attention to the possibility of productisation in line with a recent trend of expanding wearable functions such as camera-equipped earbuds.

AccLock can be seen as an example showing the potential to expand the role of earbuds from audio devices to authentication devices. If user identification is possible with only an accelerometer even in products without a heart-rate sensor, wireless earbuds could be more closely connected to smartphone or PC security systems. For now, as it remains at the proof-of-concept stage presented by the researchers, the next point to watch is whether device makers will adopt it as a product feature.