AuthenTec

Analyst: Apple bought AuthenTec for enterprise security

The news that Apple bought AuthenTec for $356 million is making rounds today, leading many to speculate that AuthenTec's technology will help turn into reality Apple's patented and yet unreleased iWallet and iTravel mobile apps that rely on NFC technology.

One analyst has a different take, saying Apple simply snapped up the NFC and smart sensors maker to keep it from falling into Samsung's hands, potentially making Galaxy tablets and smartphones more appealing to enterprise customers who above anything demand strong security...

Apple snaps up NFC and smart sensors maker AuthenTec for $356 million

Apple has made an interesting acquisition, snapping up smart sensors maker AuthenTec in a transaction valued at $356 million, Reuters reported Friday. AuthenTec makes fingerprint sensor chips used in personal computers.

What's more, its swipe sensors can read the live layer beneath the skin's surface and comply with strict government standards. They also produce chips that utilize near-field communication (NFC) technology which is said to be a part of this fall's iPhone hardware refresh...