TCL 560 with Iris scanner launched in India; price, specifications

Chinese telecommunication equipments-maker, TCL launched an affordable biometric technology-based TCL 560 in India on Monday.

"With the launch of TCL 560 first in INDIA, TCL's strong in-house research and development team have created a powerful device exclusively for the Indian consumer," said Nicolas Zibell, Vice President of TCL Corporation, said in a statement.

"In a global footprint expansion mode, we look towards India as a strategic market and a big opportunity, we aim to expand our operations with substantial growth opportunities in India. We will be launching a range of advanced technology oriented convergence products in the country," Zibell added.

The highlight of TCL 560 is that it boasts "Eye Verify", an ocular biometric technology which uses device owner's unique Iris pattern to authorise the access to the phone.

How Iris scanner works?

"Iris Recognition" is said to be more advanced and near-foolproof security system, as it involves camera technology with subtle infrared illuminations to capture the detailed nerve pattern on the iris in the eye.

Using this information, digital impressions are created by mathematical and statistical algorithm so that accurate profile is created. This new-age biometric technology is nearly impossible to be cracked by an imposter, unlike finger-print scanner that can be bypassed with a fake thumb print.

Other stipulated features of TCL 560 include 5.5-inch HD screen, Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 quad-core CPU, 2GB RAM, Android Marshmallow OS, 16GB inbuilt storage, 8MP primary camera, 5MP front snapper and a 2,500mAh battery.

Also read: Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 review: An undisputed champion in sub-Rs. 15,000 range

Price and availability:

TCL 560 will be made available exclusive on Amazon India at 12:00 a.m. on July 5 in dark grey and metallic gold colour options. It costs Rs. 7,999, making it the most affordable smartphone to boast Iris scanner-based biometric technology. Only other phone in India to boast such feature is the Microsoft's Lumia 950 series, which cost more than Rs. 45,000.

Also read: Xiaomi Mi Max first impression: It's the Wun Wun of smartphones

Competition:

TCL 560 will be up against the popular brands such as Xiaomi Redmi Note 3, Asus Zenfone Max (2016), Lenovo Vibe K5, Moto G4 series and LeEco Le 2, among others.

Read more: Asus Zenfone Max (2016) Review: Marathon battery life with faster, powerful processor

Key specifications of TCL 560: