LG Innotek proposes a different design for smartphone fingerprint readers-- a glass-covered sensor smartphone makers can integrate anywhere within a device, be it in the front, rear or even the sides.

The fingerprint reader module fits in a space just 0.3mm deep. Being glass-covered it can be incorporated the underside of smartphone cover glass without need for dedicated buttons, pads or other exposed elements.

The result should allow for sleeker smartphones, as well as for a tougher sensor able to sustain contact with water or scratch damage. In addition the actual sensor promises to have a false acceptance rate (FAR) of 0.002%, making it pretty secure.

LG gives no word when the technology will be available in consumer devices, but it should be commercialised "within the year."

Go LG Innotek Unveils Innovative Fingerprint Sensor Module Without Button