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Microsoft will be introducing a new line of keyboards and mice and some of them will include fingerprint readers that lets users scan a finger instead of having to enter a log-in name and password when accessing online services or logging on to the PC.

These products are aimed at consumers and meant for user convenience. Strong, or hard-to-guess passwords are still recommended for sensitive data such as financial information or for access to corporate networks, Microsoft said.

The Optical Desktop with Fingerprint Reader is expected to cost $US109, while the Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer with Fingerprint Reader will sell for $US85 and the Fingerprint Reader by itself is expected to retail for $US55.