Are you still worried about unauthorized access to your private files in your PC? With Windows 8.1 you’ll breathe a little easier. In a new report from The Verge said that Microsoft is working to include native fingerprint reader support. Yes, I already wrote about this biometric feature in my previous roundup of new features coming to Windows 8.1, however what is really interesting is that the software giant is also working on securing individual folders with fingerprint authentication.
The information come from Michael Niehaus, senior product marketing manager at Microsoft, during the TechEd session on Monday. Microsoft also said that in Windows 8.1 (Blue) will allow users to authenticate against a Microsoft account, and it’ll also let users to purchase apps from the Store or sign-in to apps just by using your finger.
Although you’ll need a fingerprint reader connected to your Windows 8.1 PC, the software giant is already encouraging OEMs to embed fingerprint readers into desktops, laptops, ultrabooks, keyboards, and mice to further secure your files.
Update: as it turns out the fingerprint feature to secure folders will not be part to Windows 8.1. “There was an inaccuracy stated during the Windows in the Enterprise TechEd session around fingerprint-based biometrics in Windows 8.1. To clarify, you will not be able to restrict folders or files with fingerprint access as stated in the session,” Microsoft officials stated.
Source The Verge | Image from Flickr
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].