The use of infrared-based biometric surveillance and facial recognition systems has raised growing concerns about privacy. These technologies often operate without the user’s knowledge, prompting demand for solutions that reduce involuntary data collection. In response, a new lens coating has been developed that reflects near-infrared (NIR) light to help disrupt unwanted facial and iris tracking.

Zenni ID Guard™ is designed to provide a passive form of protection by reflecting up to 80% of near-infrared wavelengths. The coating is identified by a subtle iridescent pink sheen and may interfere with systems that rely on infrared for biometric identification, such as facial recognition features found in consumer electronics. This disruption is considered an indicator of the coating’s functional performance in blocking NIR exposure.

Credit: Zenni Optical

According to Dr. Steven Lee, Director of Digital Innovation at Zenni Optical, “We live in a world where our faces are becoming a form of digital currency. From security cameras to biometric scans, invisible infrared light is being used to track us, often without our knowledge. Zenni ID Guard™ empowers you to take back control, giving you better ownership over your digital rights and personal security in an increasingly surveilled world.”

In addition to its NIR reflectivity, the coating incorporates standard optical coating benefits. It is scratch resistant, reduces glare, and offers water resistance for easier cleaning and improved comfort during wear.

The lens coating has been integrated into several existing lens platforms, including blue light–filtering lenses, standard clear lenses, and a multi-spectrum lens system called EyeQLenz™. The system combines multiple functionalities, including:

1. Near-Infrared Reflectivity: Helps reflect infrared light often used in biometric systems and solar exposure.
2. Blue Light Filtering: Supports comfort during extended screen time.
3. Light Adaptivity: Responds to sunlight by darkening outdoors and remaining clear indoors.
4. UV Protection: Blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

The coating is currently offered as part of these lens packages and is integrated without an added charge in the EyeQLenz™ configuration.

Zenni Optical reports that users may notice interference with devices that utilize infrared-based facial recognition, confirming the coating’s ability to block NIR wavelengths. This development reflects the broader effort to incorporate privacy-aware features into everyday consumer products through material and coating technologies.

Learn how Zenni ID Guard™ protects your privacy at Zenni.com/id-guard. Read about the all-in-one protection at Zenni.com/eyeqlenz.

For more innovations that combine functionality and privacy, explore PCI’s coverage on special purpose coatings.

Infrared Light, Anti-Tracking Coatings, Near-Infrared Reflective Coatings, Optical Coatings, Privacy Protection, Scratch Resistance, UV Protection, Blue Light Filtering, Smart Glass