Apple Buys AuthenTec for $356m

Apple has bought security technology company AuthenTec for the sum $356m (£227m). Authentec's offerings include secure networking, content and data protection solutions, as well fingerprint security tehnology which is available on mobile devices.

The buy hints at improved secure features for Apple's devices, which could include fingerprint recognition, or new secure features for mobile wallets or other payment systems - such as Passbook, which is being rolled out with iOS 6.

AuthenTec already has deals with many of Apple's competitors - most notably Samsung - in addition to desktop manufacturers such as Dell.

In a filing, AuthenTec confirmed that the two had entered a merger: "On July 26, 2012, Parent [Apple] and the Company [AuthenTec] entered into an Intellectual Property and Technology Agreement (the 'IP Agreement'). The IP Agreement provides Parent with the right to acquire non-exclusive licenses and certain other rights with respect to hardware technology, software technology and patents of the company."