Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) is expanding its palm-scanning technology beyond grocery stores and is rolling out a version that’s designed for the business world.
Amazon One Enterprise repackages the company’s palm-based payment system as an authentication tool that lets corporate employees swipe their hand to enter an office or access sensitive information like financial data or human resources records.
Companies already signed up for the biometric technology include IHG Hotels and Resorts, turnstile manufacturer Boon Edam, and Kone, an escalator and elevator provider. Amazon didn’t disclose pricing for the service, which is available in preview in the U.S. starting Monday.
Amazon is pitching the service as a cheaper and more secure solution for enterprises compared to traditional security and authentication tools like fobs, badges, or passwords.
“Businesses appreciate the privacy and convenience for their users, who can access physical locations and software assets with just a hover of their palm,” said Dilip Kumar, a vice president who oversees Amazon Web Services Applications, in a statement.
Amazon debuted its biometric payment system in 2020. The technology was originally conceived as a way for shoppers to pay for purchases by swiping their hand. It’s been deployed in Whole Foods grocery stores, some Go convenience marts and several Fresh supermarkets
AMZN shares dipped 91 cents to $146.82.
