3M Corp. wants computers to know you — and only you.
This week, the Maplewood conglomerate debuted privacy software that uses cameras, face recognition technology and filters to alert users if someone is trying to take a peek at their screen.
The technology blacks out content if an onlooker tries to view from an angle. The software also allows users to select various privacy settings to shield information.
"We have been asked by customers for years to give them help with over-the-shoulder screen privacy protection," said David Owen, product marketing manager for 3M's display materials and systems division. "The idea has been out there for years. But just came to fruition with this launch."
One option blurs out the screen if anyone approaches the main user from behind. Another feature, called the 3M ePrivacy Filter, uses facial recognition software and a webcam and only reveals the contents of the laptop screen to the software owner.
Another setting actually takes a picture of any snooper coming behind the user and posts the photo right on the screen. There also is an option to blur the computer's text whenever the user looks away or walks away from the computer.
3M expects the software will be a hit with hospitals, consulting firms and government agencies that deal frequently with sensitive materials on their computers. Privacy also has been a big concern with traveling executives, product developers and marketers working in coffee shops and airports.
"We are really excited. And the audiences we have shown the facial recognition features to have been really excited," Owen said.
