SmartKem, Inc. announced the launch of the world’s first all‑organic‑transistor (AOT) biometric sensor, a 256×256 active‑matrix optical imager that uses the company’s proprietary TRUFLEX semiconductor polymers. The sensor was unveiled in partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University during the 71st Annual IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM), which ran from December 6‑10, 2025.
The 256×256 imager is fabricated at low temperature, enabling it to be integrated onto flexible substrates such as curved fingerprint and palm‑print surfaces. TRUFLEX polymers provide high charge‑carrier mobility and stability, while the sensor’s multi‑wavelength, dynamic‑imaging architecture delivers built‑in liveness detection that can reduce spoofing risks in security systems.
Industry analysts project the biometric sensor market will reach $6.0 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 11.6% from 2025, while the broader flexible sensor market is expected to hit $11.2 billion by 2032 at 7.7% CAGR. SmartKem’s entry into this niche positions it to capture a share of a rapidly expanding market that is driven by wearable and IoT security demands.
SmartKem’s strategy has long focused on extending its OTFT technology beyond display manufacturing into high‑performance sensing. The company’s Q3 2025 financials show revenue of $81,000, operating expenses of $2.0 million, and a loss of $3.1 million, with cash reserves of $0.9 million. Despite these modest earnings, the new sensor launch signals a strategic pivot toward higher‑margin, high‑growth applications. The company is also in merger discussions with Jericho Energy Ventures to form a Nasdaq‑listed AI infrastructure firm, underscoring its intent to broaden its technology portfolio.
CEO Ian Jenks said, “This is a true world‑first and a powerful demonstration of the many potential use cases for SmartKem’s organic transistor platform. The technology can outperform conventional inorganic sensors in sensitivity while enabling entirely new classes of flexible, curved biometric devices.” The announcement underscores SmartKem’s confidence in the commercial viability of its OTFT platform in security and consumer electronics.
The launch of the AOT biometric sensor marks a significant milestone for SmartKem, combining cutting‑edge materials science with a clear market opportunity. By demonstrating a fully organic, low‑temperature processed sensor that can be integrated into flexible biometric devices, SmartKem is poised to capture a share of a multi‑billion‑dollar market while reinforcing its position as a leader in organic semiconductor technology.
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