BMW Patents Biometric Door Handle as Interface Surface

BMW is exploring MicroLED screens embedded in door handles that double as fingerprint readers, collapsing authentication and interaction into a single physical touchpoint. The company is treating vehicle surfaces as potential interfaces—converting traditionally passive hardware into active data-collection points that manage access, identity verification, and other functions simultaneously. The patent indicates automotive OEMs are moving beyond infotainment screens to embed sensors and displays throughout a car's exterior, though the durability and user experience of fingerprint readers on frequently-touched handles remains unproven.