The new Nymi bracelet by Bionym uses your cardiac rhythm as a password for your computer, tablets, phones, and eventually payment transactions 

By Shayna Kapadia | Staff Writer

Bionym, a biometrics and authentication technology company based in Toronto, has created Nymi bracelet that listens to a person’s heartbeat. Essentially, by using an electrocardiogram (ECG), Nymi is able to use a heartbeat as a replacement for traditional passwords.

An ECG measures how fast someone’s heart is beating, whether the rhythm is steady or irregular, and the strength and timing of electrical signals as they pass through each part of the heart. Bionym’s website states, “Like a fingerprint, your heartbeat is unique.” Using a person’s heartbeat, the bracelet is able to verify the identity of its owner.

The bracelet has two sensors that detect an individual’s cardiac rhythm, one sensor on the top and one sensor on the bottom. In order to authenticate the owner, he or she must place a finger on the top sensor while the other sensor is in contact with his or her wrist. The device then syncs with the app on an authorized authentication device (AAD), such as a smartphone, to authenticate the rhythm. Then the bracelet will vibrate and continuously verify the wearer until it is removed.

The bracelet uses a motion sensor and proximity detection feature to do tasks such as unlock a car, computer, or pay for coffee. However, most of these tasks cannot be put into motion yet, because the technology is not widely available. Even so, the possibilities are immense.

Bionym says, “The Nymi has the potential to revolutionize banking, gaming, smartphones, social media, exercise, dining and so much more. The ability to use identity in conjunction with motion control opens up a dynamic, interactive world.” Although a prototype has been made, Bionym will not start production until 2014. However, the Nymi bracelet is available for pre-order at $79.