NEXT Biometrics has secured a significant NOK 6.3 million purchase order for its recently launched FAP 20 Basalt L1 Slim fingerprint sensor from its distributor, XM Holder. The order marks an early commercial success for the new product and extends an existing partnership between the two companies. The agreement also includes provisions for potential additional orders, with an anticipated follow-on volume valued at up to NOK 25 million annually.
The FAP 20 Basalt L1 Slim sensor, which debuted earlier this month, is the latest addition to NEXT Biometrics’ Basalt product series, previously known as the NEXT Access 300 series. A key feature of this sensor is its remarkably thin profile, which is designed to facilitate easier integration for device manufacturers while maintaining robust security and high performance standards. Crucially for its market, the L1 Slim sensor has already achieved Level 1 certification for use in India, a mandatory requirement for compatibility with the nation’s extensive Aadhaar program.
Shipments under this initial order are scheduled to commence in Q3 2025, with the sensors destined for integration into devices supporting India’s Aadhaar program. NEXT Biometrics is committed to providing comprehensive support, with its local engineering team directly assisting device manufacturers, including payment point-of-sale (POS) vendors. This support is vital as manufacturers navigate the recently implemented, more stringent certification requirements from UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India).
This latest purchase order follows a substantial contract announced last month, valued between NOK 55-107 million, from ACPL. These consecutive orders highlight a strong and growing market momentum for NEXT’s biometric solutions, particularly within the Indian market. NEXT Biometrics CEO Ulf Ritsvall underscored the significance of securing this order so soon after the product’s launch.
“This market is moving quickly since UIDAI brought in more stringent certification requirements for Aadhaar,” Ritsvall stated. He added that the order demonstrates demand for high-security, high-performance biometrics for identity verification and financial services. Ritsvall also emphasized the company’s hands-on approach: “Our hardware and software engineers will work closely with them to integrate swiftly and seamlessly to launch compliant devices as soon as possible.”
The timing of this order is particularly noteworthy as it follows NEXT’s earlier challenges with Aadhaar program delays in Q1 2025, suggesting a positive shift in market conditions and validation of the company’s strategic product development and market engagement efforts.
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June 10, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team
