Apple-owned AuthenTec sells off embedded security division
updated 03:37 pm EST, Mon November 19, 2012
Company likely ditching parts unwanted by Apple
AuthenTec is selling off its embedded security solutions division to another firm, Inside Secure, says NFC World. The reason for the move hasn't been disclosed. AuthenTec was bought out by Apple earlier this year, however, and the latter is likely trying to get rid of unwanted parts of AuthenTec that use technology it doesn't need, or have clients it doesn't intend to support. In September, a Korean report claimed that AuthenTec will cut off all non-Apple customers in 2013.
The sell-off should leave AuthenTec with its fingerprint sensor and NFC technology, which Apple is expected to build into future mobile devices and computers. While at a base level it could increase the security and convenience of logging into Apple products, it's also widely believed that Apple wants it for a long-rumored NFC payment platform. Security can be a major issue with e-wallets, since losing a phone or tablet raises the risk of near-instant fraud or identity theft.
