Following a comprehensive strategic review, the newly constituted Board of NEXT Biometrics has set a bold new direction for the company. Collectively, we are placing our primary focus on NEXT Biometrics’ greatest commercial opportunity: Anywhere-on-Display. This will see us adapt our next-generation biometric technology to enable fingerprint authentication from virtually anywhere on a device’s display. A long-sought-after application across a range of sectors and use-cases.
To be clear, while Anywhere-on-Display will become NEXT’s primary strategic focus, the company will ensure continuity of support for customers of the existing sensor business. Ensuring a seamless experience for existing and new customers and partners is fundamental as we shape the future of NEXT Biometrics.
After 25 years at the forefront of biometric verification sensors, this strategic shift marks the beginning of a new chapter for NEXT Biometrics. It builds on decades of expertise while accelerating the commercial potential of our flagship Active Thermal® innovation and positioning the business for growth.
By concentrating investment and resources on Active Thermal® display technology innovation, NEXT is sharpening its focus on a market with significant long-term growth potential. It also marks the start of a process to move to a new intellectual property (IP) licensing business model.
A fabless operation – our transition over time from our current manufacturing-led approach, where we build and sell sensors, to an IP-led strategy that allows partners to license and use our innovations in their devices – is a natural step for the company. This will give our valued customers greater flexibility while enabling us to significantly extend the reach of our fantastic technology, driving wider adoption through strategic partners while concentrating on what we do best: inventing, developing and protecting world-class biometric innovations.
We will continue to unlock value from our established fingerprint sensor business through strategic partnerships, licensing opportunities and the optimisation of existing assets, while building a growing IP portfolio that will underpin our long-term growth.
Alongside this renewed strategic focus, the company is creating a leaner, more agile organisation by streamlining operations, outsourcing manufacturing and further reducing its cost base. These measures are designed to strengthen the business, increase operational flexibility and accelerate the commercialisation of its most innovative technologies.
With this clear strategic direction, a differentiated technology and a commitment to disciplined execution, the company is building a stronger foundation for long-term innovation, growth and shareholder value.
A final word for our valued customers – we truly value the close working relationships built over years and will continue to support your journeys as you work to strengthen authentication and identification through fingerprint sensors on the biometric market.
~ Ulf Ritsvall, Chief Executive Officer, NEXT Biometrics