Biometrics in 2026: which trends will transform security?

Biometrics continues to evolve, and 2026 marks a new milestone in access security, fraud prevention, and user experience optimization. Driven by hardware advancements, evolving regulatory requirements, and the widespread adoption of contactless technologies, organizations and public authorities are now looking for solutions that are faster, more reliable, and easier to deploy. At Biotime Biometrics, these developments translate into enhanced support and a portfolio of next-generation sensors designed to meet real-world operational needs.

Embedded AI at the core of next-generation sensors

Artificial intelligence is no longer limited to servers: it is now embedded directly into biometric terminals. This on-device AI enables faster local processing, improved detection of fraud attempts (masks, photos, deepfakes), and more robust recognition, even in challenging environments.

Manufacturers are accelerating this shift, and 2026 models deliver significantly higher performance: instant acquisition, algorithms capable of learning natural variations in facial features or fingerprints, and reduced error rates in high-traffic conditions. Biotime Biometrics therefore offers next-generation sensors from leading market players, including IDEMIA and HID solutions, recognized for their accuracy and long-term reliability.

Towards more compact and multimodal terminals

Miniaturization continues to progress: terminals are becoming more discreet, more energy-efficient, and easier to integrate into existing infrastructures. 2026 also sees the rapid rise of multimodal biometrics. Face, fingerprint, vein recognition, badge… devices now combine multiple technologies to enhance security while streamlining the user experience.

This “multi-option” approach meets the needs of critical sites, as well as organizations seeking flexible authentication methods tailored to different user profiles. Biotime Biometrics supports this evolution with a comprehensive range of multimodal terminals, enabling each deployment to be aligned with the required level of security.

The rise of contactless use cases and the growth of offline biometrics

Contactless access continues to establish itself as the standard, driven by sensitive environments, multi-access sites, and the demand for speed. Facial recognition, in particular, continues to gain traction thanks to faster and more accurate sensors.

At the same time, 2026 marks the expansion of offline biometric solutions capable of operating without a constant network or cloud connection. This approach enhances system resilience and reduces cybersecurity attack surfaces. It appeals to both industrial players and public authorities seeking reliable, autonomous systems.

Biotime Biometrics closely follows this trend and offers solutions tailored to environments where service continuity is critical.

Biometrics in 2026 is defined by technologies that are faster, more compact, and more secure than ever. With a comprehensive portfolio and proven expertise, Biotime Biometrics supports organizations through this transition, enabling them to deploy solutions perfectly aligned with their security and usage requirements.