Iris Recognition¶
Definition¶
Iris recognition identifies individuals based on the unique patterns in the colored ring around the pupil. It offers extremely high accuracy (FAR < 1 in 1.2 million) and is used in Aadhaar and border control systems.
Iris in eKYC¶
| Context | Usage |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar | Iris scan as biometric authentication option (alternative to fingerprint) |
| Border control | UAE, Singapore use iris for automated immigration |
| High-security | Military, nuclear facilities |
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| Highest accuracy of all biometrics | Requires specialized camera or very close phone capture |
| Works even when fingerprints are worn | Affected by eye conditions (cataracts, pupil dilation) |
| Non-contact | User must be very close and still |
| Stable over lifetime | Glasses and contact lenses can interfere |
Key Takeaways¶
Summary
- Iris offers the highest biometric accuracy but requires specialized hardware
- Primarily used in Aadhaar (as fingerprint alternative) and border control
- Not practical for mainstream eKYC via phone — face has won as the primary modality
- Mobile iris capture is improving but still niche