Yubico’s first security key with a built-in fingerprint reader is finally launching.
The Yubikey Bio, first teased in 2019, will start at $80 for the USB Type A version, and $85 for the USB Type C model. Both products will be available on Yubico.com starting today.
With security keys, anyone logging in to internet accounts must type in a password and insert the hardware-based security key into their computer’s USB port. It’s a secure authentication method, but these keys tend be pricey, ranging from $20 to $50 each.
With the Bio, Yubico incorporates a fingerprint scanner into its security key, so users won’t need to type in a password or PIN if they insert it into a computer. They’ll just scan their fingerprint to unlock access. As a result, the company says the new Yubikey can support “fingerprint recognition for secure passwordless and second factor logins.”
The fingerprint data itself is saved in a separate “secure element” on the key, kept away from the central systems, according to Yubico. In addition, the fingerprint data never leaves the device.
Adding the finger sensor has been a highly requested feature among Yubico customers. However, developing the Yubikey Bio took time, the company says, citing the need to ensure the fingerprint sensor is compatible with a variety of platforms.
The resulting security key has been designed to work with applications that support the FIDO 2.0, WebAuthn, and U2F standards. It also doesn’t need a battery or any software drivers for the fingerprint sensor to operate on a PC.
“Should a user’s fingerprint not register on the device during a login attempt, users will be able to unlock the YubiKey Bio with a personal PIN which is added during initial setup,” the company adds. “Fingerprints can also be enrolled, added, and deleted with the Yubico Authenticator for Desktop app on Windows, macOS and Linux.”
Stay tuned for our review.