Electronic device an operating method thereof

An apparatus and method for setting a fingerprint recognition region in an electronic device are provided. An electronic device includes a display, a finger scan sensor overlapped with at least a partial region of the display, and a processor. The processor controls to detect a touch input for at least one object displayed at the display, when detecting a first fingerprint image through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input, enlarge a size of the fingerprint recognition region, detect a second fingerprint image through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, and when having succeeded in user authentication by using the second fingerprint image, perform a function corresponding to the at least one object.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) to a Korean patent application filed on Dec. 1, 2016 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office and assigned Serial No. 10-2016-0162649, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for setting a fingerprint recognition region in an electronic device.

BACKGROUND

With the growth of information telecommunication technologies and semiconductor technologies, various electronic devices are developing into multimedia devices providing various multimedia services. For example, the multimedia service may include various services such as a voice call service, a message service, a broadcasting service, a wireless Internet service, a camera service, and a music play service.

The electronic device may store various kinds of private information such as a phone number, authentication information (e.g., identification number) and the like. To protect the private information stored in the electronic device, the electronic device may provide an authentication service. For example, the electronic device may provide an authentication service (e.g., biometric recognition service) utilizing biometric information such as an iris, a fingerprint, a face, a palm line, a vein, etc.

SUMMARY

An electronic device can acquire a user's biometric information (e.g., fingerprint information) for user authentication, by using a medical sensor (e.g., a finger scan sensor) operatively coupled with the electronic device. For example, when detecting a user input for user authentication, the electronic device can activate the finger scan sensor. The electronic device can acquire a user's fingerprint information, based on the user's additional input to the finger scan sensor.

To perform user authentication utilizing biometric information, the electronic device requires many user inputs and therefore, can result in an inconvenience to the user who utilizes a biometric recognition service.

Also, when the electronic device detects a user's fingerprint information by using a finger scan sensor installed in the entire or at least a partial region of a display, a problem that power is unnecessarily consumed can take place, because even a finger scan sensor of a region not related with fingerprint recognition is activated.

Aspects of the present disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for providing various user interfaces by using fingerprint information on a user input for an object in an electronic device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for adaptively setting a fingerprint recognition region in an electronic device.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a display, a finger scan sensor overlapped with at least a partial region of the display, and a processor. The processor may control to detect a touch input for at least one object displayed at the display, when detecting a first fingerprint image through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input, enlarge a size of the fingerprint recognition region, detect a second fingerprint image through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, and, when having succeeded in user authentication by using the second fingerprint image, perform a function corresponding to the at least one object.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an operating method of an electronic device is provided. The operating method includes detecting a touch input for at least one object displayed at a display of the electronic device, checking whether a first fingerprint image is detected through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input, when detecting the first fingerprint image, enlarging a size of the fingerprint recognition region, detecting a second fingerprint image through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, and, when having succeeded in user authentication by using the second fingerprint image, performing a function corresponding to the at least one object.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the present disclosure, an expression “A or B”, “A and/or B”, or the like may include all possible combinations of items enumerated together. Although expressions such as “1st”, “2nd”, “first”, and “second” may be used to express corresponding constitutional elements, it is not intended to limit the corresponding constitutional elements. When a certain (e.g., 1st) constitutional element is mentioned as being “operatively or communicatively coupled with/to” or “connected to” a different (e.g., 2nd) constitutional element, the certain constitutional element is directly coupled with/to another constitutional element or can be coupled with/to the different constitutional element via another (e.g., 3rd) constitutional element.

An expression “configured to” used in the present document may be interchangeably used with, for example, “suitable for”, “having the capacity to”, “adapted to”, “made to”, “capable of”, or “designed to” in a hardware or software manner according to a situation. In a certain situation, an expressed “a device configured to” may imply that the device is “capable of” together with other devices or components. For example, “a processor configured to perform A, B, and C” may imply a dedicated processor (e.g., an embedded processor) for performing a corresponding operation or a generic-purpose processor (e.g., central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)) capable of performing corresponding operations by executing one or more software programs stored in a memory device.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, may include at least one of a smartphone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a mobile phone, a video phone, an electronic book (e-book) reader, a desktop PC, a laptop PC, a netbook computer, a workstation, a server, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), an MP3 player, a mobile medical appliance, a camera, and a wearable device (e.g., smart glasses, a head-mounted-device (HMD), electronic clothes, an electronic bracelet, an electronic necklace, an electronic appcessory, an electronic tattoo, a smart mirror, or a smart watch).

FIG. 1Aillustrates an electronic device within a network environment in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 1A, an electronic device101, within a network environment100, may include a bus110, a processor120(e.g., including processing circuitry), a memory130, an input output interface150(e.g., including input/output circuitry), a display160(e.g., including display circuitry), and a communication interface170(e.g., including communication circuitry). In various embodiments, the electronic device101may omit at least one of the constituent elements or additionally have another constituent element.

The bus110may, for example, include circuitry for connecting the constituent elements120to170with each other and forwarding communication (e.g., a control message and/or data) between the constituent elements.

The processor120may include one or more of a CPU, an AP, a communication processor (CP) or an image signal processor (ISP). The processor120may, for example, execute an operation or data processing for control and/or communication of at least one other constituent element of the electronic device101.

According to an embodiment, the processor120may set a function corresponding to user authentication to at least one object displayable at the display160. For example, the processor120may set a function for executing through a specific object among a plurality of objects displayable at the display160and authentication information (e.g., reference fingerprint information) on the corresponding function. For instance, the function may include at least one of the execution of an application, security setting, the execution of a control menu, and the setting of the control menu.

According to an embodiment, the processor120may control the display160to display at least one object. For example, the object may include a graphic element configuring a service screen, such as an icon of an application, state information, control menu setting information, and the like.

According to an embodiment, when detecting a touch input for at least one object among a plurality of objects displayed at the display160, the processor120may control to detect a user's fingerprint information corresponding to the touch input. For example, when detecting a touch input corresponding to at least one object displayed at the display160through a touch panel, the processor120may check whether a fingerprint authentication event occurs. For instance, the processor120may determine whether the fingerprint authentication event takes place, based on setting or non-setting of a service corresponding to a touch holding time of an object, a pressure intensity of the object, and user authentication of the object. When detecting the occurrence of the fingerprint authentication event, the processor120may set, as a fingerprint recognition region, at least a part of a finger scan sensor corresponding to a touch input for at least one object. The processor120may control the finger scan sensor (or fingerprint panel) such that the fingerprint recognition region is activated. For instance, the processor120may set, as the fingerprint recognition region, at least a part of the finger scan sensor which is overlapped with a region where the touch input for the object has been detected. The processor120may acquire at least a part of a user fingerprint through the fingerprint recognition region of the finger scan sensor.

According to an embodiment, the processor120may control a finger scan sensor (or fingerprint panel) to adjust a size of a fingerprint recognition region. For example, the processor120may check whether a fingerprint image is detected through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch input for at least one object. When acquiring the fingerprint image through the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input for the object, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor (or fingerprint panel) to temporarily enlarge a size of the fingerprint recognition region for the sake of user authentication. For instance, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor (or fingerprint panel) to enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region to a predefined size, or enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region to a size which is determined based on a size of at least one reference fingerprint image. Additionally or alternatively, the processor120may determine whether to enlarge the fingerprint recognition region, based on the size of the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input for the object. For instance, when the size of the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input for the object exceeds a reference size, the processor120may restrict the enlargement of the fingerprint recognition region. In this case, the processor120may perform user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image acquired through the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input for the object. For instance, when the size of the fingerprint image acquired through the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch input for the object is equal to or is less than the reference size, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor (or fingerprint panel) to enlarge the fingerprint recognition region. That is, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor (or fingerprint panel) to enlarge a size of an active region in the finger scan sensor.

According to an embodiment, when failing to acquire a fingerprint image through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch input for at least one object, the processor120may execute a function corresponding to the touch input for the object.

According to an embodiment, the processor120may perform user authentication by using fingerprint information detected through an enlarged fingerprint recognition region. For example, the processor120may acquire the fingerprint information (i.e., fingerprint image) through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region. By comparing the corresponding fingerprint information and a predefined reference fingerprint image, the processor120may perform the user authentication. When succeeding in the user authentication, the processor120may execute an operation or function mapped to the user authentication of an object in which a touch input has been detected. Additionally or alternatively, when enlarging a size of the fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may control the display160to change a display variable (e.g., a color, an illumination, a shadow, etc.) of the fingerprint recognition region such that the fingerprint recognition region is distinguished from a remnant region.

According to an embodiment, when failing in user authentication by using fingerprint information (i.e., fingerprint image) detected through an enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may control to output information corresponding to fingerprint re-authentication. For example, when failing in the user authentication, the processor120may control the display160to display a message of guiding user re-authentication.

According to an embodiment, when failing in user authentication by using fingerprint information detected through an enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may execute a function corresponding to a touch input for an object.

The memory130may include a volatile and/or non-volatile memory. The memory130may, for example, store a command or data related to at least one other constituent element of the electronic device101. According to an embodiment, the memory130may store at least one reference fingerprint image for user authentication, and operation or function information mapped to user authentication of an object.

According to an embodiment, the memory130may store a software and/or program140. For example, the program140may include a kernel141, a middleware143, an application programming interface (API)145, an application program (or “application”)147or the like. At least some of the kernel141, the middleware143, or the API145may be called an operating system (OS).

The kernel141may, for example, control or manage system resources (e.g., the bus110, the processor120, the memory130or the like) which are used for executing operations or functions implemented in other programs (e.g., the middleware143, the API145, or the application program147). Also, the kernel141may provide an interface capable of enabling the middleware143, the API145, or the application program147to access the individual constituent element of the electronic device101, thereby controlling or managing the system resources of the electronic device101.

The middleware143may, for example, perform a relay role of enabling the API145or the application program147to communicate and exchange data with the kernel141. Also, the middleware143may process one or more work requests received from the application program147in accordance with priority. For example, the middleware143may grant at least one of the application programs147a priority of utilizing the system resources (e.g., the bus110, the processor120, the memory130, etc.) of the electronic device101, and process the one or more work requests. The API145is, for example, an interface enabling the application program147to control a function provided by the kernel141or the middleware143. The API145may, for example, include at least one interface or function (e.g., an instruction) for file control, window control, image processing, character control or the like.

The input output interface150may, for example, play a role of an interface capable of forwarding a command or data inputted from a user or another external device to the other constituent element(s) of the electronic device101.

The display160may, for example, include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display, or an electronic paper display. For example, the display160may display various contents (e.g., a text, an image, a video, an icon, a symbol and/or the like) to a user.

According to an embodiment, the display160may include a display panel, a touch panel, a finger scan sensor, and a pressure panel. For example, the display160may receive a touch, gesture, proximity or hovering input utilizing an electronic pen or a part of a user's human body, through the touch panel. For instance, the touch panel may detect a user's fingerprint image by enhancing a resolution of a coordinate capable of detecting a user input (i.e., touch) in a capacitive scheme. For example, the finger scan sensor may include a light receiving module, which is disposed adjacent to a plurality of pixels included in the display panel. The finger scan sensor may detect a user's fingerprint image by collecting, through the light receiving module, a value of light emitted from the plurality of pixels included in the display panel and reflected from a part of the user's human body. For instance, the light receiving module may be disposed to correspond to at least one pixel. For example, as will be described with reference toFIG. 1Bbelow, the finger scan sensor may be configured as a separate panel overlapped with the touch panel and detect a fingerprint image as well. For example, the display160may, through a pressure panel, receive a pressure input by a part of a user's human body or a nonconductor.

The communication interface170may, for example, establish communication between the electronic device101and an external device (e.g., a first external electronic device102, a second external electronic device104, or a server106). For example, the communication interface170may be connected to a network172by a wireless communication or wired communication, to communicate with the external device (e.g., the second external electronic device104or the server106). Similarly, the communication interface170may be connected to the electronic device102by a wired or wireless communication174.

The wireless communication may, for example, include a cellular communication that utilizes at least one of long term evolution (LTE), LTE-advanced (LTE-A), code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband CDMA (WCDMA), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), wireless broadband (WiBro), global system for mobile communications (GSM) or the like. According to an embodiment, the wireless communication may, for example, include at least one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (BT), Bluetooth low energy (BLE), Zigbee, near field communication (NFC), magnetic secure transmission (MST), radio frequency (RF), or body area network (BAN). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication may include GNSS. The GNSS may, for example, be a GPS, a global navigation satellite system (Glonass), Beidou (Beidou navigation satellite system), or Galileo (the European global satellite-based navigation system). Below, the “GPS” may be used interchangeably with the “GNSS”. The wired communication may, for example, include at least one of a universal serial bus (USB), a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), recommended standard-232 (RS-232), plain old telephone service (POTS) or the like. The network172may include a telecommunications network, for example, at least one of a computer network (e.g., local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN)), the Internet, or a telephone network.

The first and second electronic devices102and104each may be a device of the same or different type from that of the electronic device101. According to various embodiments, all or some of operations executed in the electronic device101may be executed in another or a plurality of electronic devices (e.g., the electronic devices102and104or the server106). According to an embodiment, when the electronic device101has to perform some function or service automatically or by a request, the electronic device101may, instead of or additionally to executing the function or service in itself, request at least a partial function associated with this to another device (e.g., the electronic device102or104or the server106). The other electronic device (e.g., the electronic device102or104or the server106) may execute the requested function or additional function, and forward the execution result to the electronic device101. The electronic device101may process the received result as it is or additionally, thereby providing the requested function or service. For this, a cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing technology may be used, for example.

FIG. 1Billustrates a block diagram of an electronic device for processing input information according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 1B, the display160of the electronic device101may include a display panel (not shown) displaying various contents, a touch panel162recognizing a touch signal, and a fingerprint panel164recognizing a fingerprint image.

A touch integrated circuit (IC)180may generate a touch event corresponding to touch information (e.g., touch coordinate) of a touch input detected through the touch panel162. A fingerprint IC190may generate an authentication event corresponding to a fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint panel164.

The processor120may match and process the touch event and the authentication event which are provided from the touch IC180and the fingerprint IC190respectively. For example, when being provided with occurrence information of the touch event from the touch IC180, the processor120may determine an active region (i.e., fingerprint recognition region) of the fingerprint panel164. The processor120may perform user authentication by using a fingerprint image acquired through the active region of the fingerprint panel164. When succeeding in the user authentication by using the fingerprint image acquired through the active region of the fingerprint panel164, the processor120may control to perform an operation or function which has been preset to an object of a touch point provided from the touch IC180.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic device101may configure the touch IC180and the fingerprint IC190as one module as well.

FIG. 2illustrates a block diagram of an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 2, an electronic device201may, for example, include the entire or a part of the electronic device101shown inFIG. 1A. The electronic device201may include one or more processors (e.g., an AP)210, a communication module220, a subscriber identification module224, a memory230, a sensor module240, an input device250, a display260, an interface270, an audio module280, a camera module291, a power management module295, a battery296, an indicator297, and a motor298.

The processor210may, for example, operate an OS or an application program, to control a plurality of hardware or software constituent elements connected to the processor210, and may perform various data processing and operations. The processor210may be, for example, implemented as a system on chip (SoC). According to an embodiment, the processor210may further include a graphic processing unit (GPU) and/or an ISP. The processor210may include at least some (e.g., cellular module221) of the constituent elements shown inFIG. 2as well. The processor210may load a command or data received from at least one of the other constituent elements (e.g., non-volatile memory) to a volatile memory and process the loaded command or data, and may store the result data in the non-volatile memory.

According to an embodiment, when detecting a touch input for at least one object displayed at the display260, the processor210may set a fingerprint recognition region which is overlapped with a region where the touch input has been detected. When detecting a fingerprint image through the fingerprint recognition region, the processor210may enlarge a size of the fingerprint recognition region, and perform user authentication. When succeeding in the user authentication through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the processor210may control to perform an operation or function matched to an object in which a touch input has been detected.

The communication module220may have the same or similar construction as the communication interface170ofFIG. 1A. The communication module220may, for example, include the cellular module221, a Wi-Fi module223, a BT module225, a GNSS module227, an NFC module228, and an RF module229.

The cellular module221may, for example, provide voice telephony, video telephony, a text service, an Internet service or the like through a telecommunication network. According to an embodiment, the cellular module221may perform the distinction and authentication of the electronic device201within the telecommunication network by using the subscriber identification module (e.g., SIM card)224. According to an embodiment, the cellular module221may perform at least some functions among functions the processor210may provide. According to an embodiment, the cellular module221may include a CP.

According to various embodiments, at least some (e.g., two or more) of the cellular module221, the Wi-Fi module223, the BT module225, the GNSS module227or the NFC module228may be included within one integrated chip (IC) or IC package.

The RF module229may, for example, transmit and/or receive a communication signal (e.g., an RF signal). The RF module229may, for example, include a transceiver, a power amplifier module (PAM), a frequency filter, a low noise amplifier (LNA), an antenna or the like. According to another embodiment, at least one of the cellular module221, the Wi-Fi module223, the BT module225, the GNSS module227or the NFC module228may transmit and/or receive an RF signal through a separate RF module. The subscriber identification module224may, for example, include a card including a subscriber identification module and/or an embedded SIM. And, the subscriber identification module224may include unique identification information (e.g., integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID)) or subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)).

The memory230(e.g., the memory130ofFIG. 1A) may, for example, include an internal memory232or an external memory234. The internal memory232may, for example, include at least one of a volatile memory (e.g., a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), a synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM) or the like), and/or a non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable read only memory (OTPROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable PROM (EPROM), an electrically EPROM (EEPROM), a mask ROM, a flash ROM, a flash memory, a hard drive, or a solid state drive (SSD)). The external memory234may include a flash drive, for example, a compact flash (CF), a secure digital (SD), a micro-SD, a mini-SD, an extreme digital (xD), a multi media card (MMC), a memory stick or the like. The external memory234may be operatively or physically coupled with the electronic device201through various interfaces.

The sensor module240may, for example, measure a physical quantity or sense an activation state of the electronic device201, to convert measured or sensed information into an electrical signal. The sensor module240may, for example, include at least one of a gesture sensor240A, a gyro sensor240B, a barometer240C, a magnetic sensor240D, an acceleration sensor240E, a grip sensor240F, a proximity sensor240G, a color sensor240H (e.g., a red, green, blue (RGB) sensor), a medical sensor240I, a temperature-humidity sensor240J, an illumination sensor240K, or an ultra violet (UV) sensor240M. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor module240may, for example, include an e-nose sensor, an electromyography (EMG) sensor, an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, an iris scan sensor, and/or a finger scan sensor. The sensor module240may further include a control circuitry for controlling at least one or more sensors belonging therein. In various embodiments, the electronic device201may further include a processor configured to control the sensor module240as a part of the processor210or separately, to control the sensor module240while the processor210is in a sleep state.

The input device250may, for example, include a touch panel252, a (digital) pen sensor254, a key256, or an ultrasonic input device258. The touch panel252may, for example, use at least one scheme among a capacitive overlay scheme, a pressure sensitive scheme, an infrared beam scheme, or an ultrasonic scheme. Also, the touch panel252may further include a control circuitry as well. The touch panel252may further include a tactile layer, to provide a tactile response (i.e., a touch coordinate) to a user. The (digital) pen sensor254may, for example, be a part of the touch panel252, or include a separate sheet for recognition. The key256may, for example, include a physical button, an optical key, or a keypad. The ultrasonic input device258may detect an ultrasonic wave generated in an input tool through a microphone (e.g., a microphone288), to identify data corresponding to the detected ultrasonic wave.

The display260(e.g., the display160) may include a panel262, a hologram device264, a projector266, and/or a control circuitry for controlling them. The panel262may, for example, be implemented to be flexible, transparent, or wearable. The panel262may be configured as one or more modules along with the touch panel252. According to an embodiment, the panel262may include a pressure sensor (or force sensor) capable of measuring pressure information (e.g., a pressure coordinate and a pressure intensity) on a user's touch. The pressure sensor may be implemented integrally with the touch panel252, or be implemented as one or more sensors separate from the touch panel252. According to an embodiment, the panel262may include a finger scan sensor capable of detecting fingerprint information (e.g., fingerprint image) on a user's touch. The finger scan sensor may be implemented integrally with the touch panel252, or be implemented as one or more sensors separate from the touch panel252. The hologram device264may show a three-dimensional image to the air by using the interference of light. The projector266may project light onto a screen to display an image. The screen may, for example, be disposed inside or outside the electronic device201. The interface270may, for example, include an HDMI272, a USB274, an optical interface276, or a D-subminiature (D-sub)278. The interface270may be, for example, included in the communication interface170shown inFIG. 1A. Additionally or alternatively, the interface270may, for example, include a mobile high-definition link (MHL) interface, an SD card/multi-media card (MMC) interface, or an infrared data association (IrDA) standard interface.

The audio module280may, for example, convert a sound and an electrical signal interactively. At least some constituent elements of the audio module280may, for example, be included in the input output interface145shown inFIG. 1A. The audio module280may, for example, process sound information that is inputted or outputted through a speaker282, a receiver284, an earphone286, the microphone288or the like. The camera module291may be, for example, a device able to capture a still image and a video. According to an embodiment, the camera module291may include one or more image sensors (e.g., a front sensor or rear sensor), a lens, an ISP, or a flash (e.g., an LED, a xenon lamp or the like). The power management module295may, for example, manage power of the electronic device201. According to an embodiment, the power management module295may include a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), a charger IC, or a battery or fuel gauge. The PMIC may employ a wired and/or wireless charging scheme. The wireless charging scheme may, for example, include a magnetic resonance scheme, a magnetic induction scheme, an electromagnetic wave scheme or the like. And, the wireless charging scheme may further include a supplementary circuitry for wireless charging, for example, a coil loop, a resonance circuitry, a rectifier or the like. The battery gauge may, for example, measure a level of the battery296, a voltage in charge, an electric current or a temperature. The battery296may, for example, include a rechargeable battery and/or a solar battery.

The indicator297may display a specific state (for example, a booting state, a message state, a charging state or the like) of the electronic device201or a part (e.g., the processor210) of the electronic device201. The motor298may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration, and may generate a vibration, a haptic effect or the like. The electronic device201may, for example, include a mobile TV support device (e.g., a GPU) capable of processing media data according to the standards of digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB), digital video broadcasting (DVB), mediaFlo™ or the like. The constituent elements described in the present document may each consist of one or more components, and a name of the corresponding constituent element may vary according to the kind of the electronic device. In various embodiments, the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device201) may omit some constituent elements, or further include additional constituent elements, or combine some of the constituent elements and configure the same as one entity to identically perform functions of the corresponding constituent elements before combination.

FIG. 3illustrates a flowchart for setting a fingerprint recognition region in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.FIGS. 4A to 4Cillustrate a screen configuration for setting a fingerprint recognition region in the electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG. 5AandFIG. 5Billustrate a user's input form for fingerprint recognition according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, the electronic device may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 3, in operation301, the electronic device may display a plurality of objects at a display. For example, as inFIG. 4A, the processor120may control to display, at the display160, a service screen (e.g., idle screen) which includes state information402(e.g., wireless LAN activity information) of the electronic device101, a widget404(e.g., weather information), and an icon406of at least one application installed in the electronic device101.

In operation303, the electronic device may detect a touch input for at least one object among the plurality of objects displayed at the display. For example, the processor120may detect a touch input for the wireless LAN activity information402among the plurality of objects displayed at the display160, through the touch panel162overlapped with at least a part of a display panel of the display160.

In operation305, the electronic device may detect at least a part of a user fingerprint corresponding to a touch region. For example, the processor120may check whether a fingerprint authentication event occurs based on the setting or non-setting of a service corresponding to touch information (e.g., a touch holding time or a pressure intensity) of an object or user authentication of the object. When detecting the occurrence of the fingerprint authentication event, the processor120may set, as a fingerprint recognition region, at least a part of a finger scan sensor (e.g., fingerprint panel164) which is overlapped with the touch region where the touch input for the object has been detected. The processor120may control the finger scan sensor such that the at least part having been set as the fingerprint recognition region is activated.

As inFIG. 4B, the processor120may detect at least a part410of a user fingerprint through a fingerprint recognition region having been set with a criterion of a touch point of an object. In more detail, when selecting an object of a relatively small size like the wireless LAN activity information402displayed at the display160, a user of the electronic device101may use at least a part500of the finger's last joint as inFIG. 5A. Accordingly, the processor120may detect a fingerprint image of a part of the finger's last joint with which the user comes in contact with the display160in order to select the wireless LAN activity information402.

In operation307, the electronic device may enlarge the fingerprint recognition region for the sake of user authentication. For example, when detecting at least a part of a user fingerprint corresponding to a touch region, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor to enlarge a size of the fingerprint recognition region420as inFIG. 4C. For instance, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor to enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region to a size corresponding to a size of the largest reference fingerprint image among at least one reference fingerprint image stored in the memory120. Additionally or alternatively, the processor120may control the display160to change a display variable of the fingerprint recognition region such that the fingerprint recognition region is distinguished from a remnant region.

In operation309, the electronic device may additionally detect a fingerprint (i.e., a fingerprint image) through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region. For example, when the fingerprint recognition region of the finger scan sensor is enlarged420as inFIG. 4C, a user of the electronic device101may get the majority510of the finger's last joint to be in contact with the display160. Accordingly, by using the finger scan sensor, the processor120may detect a fingerprint image of the finger with which the user gets in contact with the fingerprint recognition region420of the display160. By comparing fingerprint information detected through the fingerprint recognition region420and at least one reference fingerprint image stored in the memory130, the processor120may perform user authentication. When detecting a reference fingerprint image matched with the fingerprint information detected through the fingerprint recognition region420, the processor120may determine that it has succeeded in user authentication. In this case, the processor120may perform an operation or function mapped to the user authentication of the object in which the touch input has been detected. In more detail, when succeeding in the user authentication of the wireless LAN activity information402, the processor120may attempt wireless LAN connection by a preset access point (AP). According to an embodiment, when failing the user authentication, the processor120may control the display160to output a message for guiding user re-authentication. According to an embodiment, when failing the user authentication, the processor120may perform an operation or function corresponding to the touch input for the object.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic device may perform user authentication by using at least a part of a user fingerprint corresponding to a touch region of an object. When succeeding in the user authentication utilizing the at least part of the user fingerprint corresponding to the touch region, the electronic device may enlarge a fingerprint recognition region in order to enhance a reliability of the user authentication.

FIGS. 6A to 6Cillustrate a screen configuration for setting a fingerprint recognition region in a wearable device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, the wearable device600may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 6A, the wearable device600may display a service screen at a display610. For example, when operating in an idle mode, as inFIG. 6A, the wearable device600may display, at the display610, a service screen (e.g., idle screen) that includes Bluetooth activity information612, battery level information614and time information616.

Referring toFIG. 6B, the wearable device600may detect a fingerprint corresponding to a touch input for a specific object among a plurality of objects (e.g.,612,614, and616) displayed at the display610. For example, when detecting a touch input for Bluetooth activity information612, the wearable device600may check whether a fingerprint authentication event occurs, based on touch information (e.g., a touch holding time or pressure intensity) of the Bluetooth activity information612. When detecting the occurrence of the fingerprint authentication event, the wearable device600may set, as a fingerprint recognition region, at least a part of a finger scan sensor corresponding to the touch input for the Bluetooth activity information612. As inFIG. 6B, the wearable device600may detect at least a part620of a user fingerprint through a fingerprint recognition region. For instance, the wearable device600may activate the fingerprint recognition region of the finger scan sensor, and keep a remnant region in an inactive state.

Referring toFIG. 6C, the wearable device600may enlarge a fingerprint recognition region for the sake of user authentication. For example, as inFIG. 6C, when detecting a fingerprint image through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch input for the Bluetooth activity information612, the wearable device600may enlarge a size of the fingerprint recognition region630. Additionally or alternatively, the wearable device600may display the fingerprint recognition region through the display610.

According to an embodiment, the wearable device600may detect a user's fingerprint image through the fingerprint recognition region630having been set as inFIG. 6C. When succeeding in user authentication through the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region630, the wearable device600may perform an operation or function mapped to the user authentication of the Bluetooth activity information612. For example, when succeeding in the user authentication through the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region630, the wearable device600may attempt Bluetooth connection with a preset external device. For example, when succeeding in the user authentication through the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region630, the wearable device600may attempt wireless LAN connection (e.g., Wi-Fi connection) with the external device Bluetooth-connected.

FIG. 7illustrates a flowchart for selectively setting a fingerprint recognition region based on a touch holding time of an object in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, an operation for detecting a fingerprint of a touch region in operation305ofFIG. 3is described. In the following description, the electronic device may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 7, in operation701, when detecting a touch input for at least one object displayed at a display (e.g., operation303ofFIG. 3), the electronic device may check whether a touch holding time of an object exceeds a reference time. For example, to perform fingerprint recognition through a touch input for an object, a user of the electronic device101may maintain the touch input for the object during a constant time relatively compared with a touch input for selecting the object. Accordingly, when the touch holding time of the object exceeds the reference time, the processor120may determine to perform fingerprint recognition for an object. For instance, the touch holding time of the object may include time information for which a touch of the object is held from a time point at which the touch input for the object has been detected.

In operation707, when the touch holding time of the object is equal to or is less than the reference time, the electronic device may check whether the touch input for the object is released.

When the touch input for the object is maintained, in operation701, the electronic device may again check whether the touch holding time of the object exceeds the reference time. For example, the processor120may check continuously or periodically whether the touch holding time of the object exceeds the reference time.

In operation703, when the touch holding time of the object exceeds the reference time, the electronic device may activate a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch region. For example, when the touch holding time of the object exceeds the reference time, the processor120may determine that a fingerprint authentication event has occurred. Accordingly, the processor120may control a finger scan sensor such that at least a partial region (i.e., the fingerprint recognition region) of the finger scan sensor which is overlapped with the touch region where the touch input for the object has been detected is activated.

In operation705, the electronic device may check whether a user's fingerprint image is detected through the fingerprint recognition region. For example, the processor120may check whether the user's fingerprint image is detected, by radiating light through a plurality of light emitting modules (e.g., pixels) included in the activated at least partial region of the finger scan sensor and collecting light reflected from a part of the user' human body through a light receiving module.

In operation709, in a state in which the touch holding time of the object is less than the reference time, when the touch input for the object is released, or the fingerprint image is not detected through the fingerprint recognition region, the electronic device may perform a function corresponding to the touch input for the object. For example, the processor120may execute an application corresponding to the object, based on the touch input for the object. The processor120may control the display160to display general content corresponding to the execution of the corresponding application.

FIG. 8illustrates a flowchart for selectively setting a fingerprint recognition region based on an intensity of a selection input for an object in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, an operation for detecting a fingerprint of a touch region in operation305ofFIG. 3is described. In the following description, the electronic device may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 8, in operation801, when detecting a touch input for at least one object displayed at a display (e.g., operation303ofFIG. 3), the electronic device may check whether a pressure intensity corresponding to the touch input for the object exceeds a reference intensity. For example, the processor120may detect an intensity of a pressure, which is generated by the touch input for the object, through a pressure panel of the display160. To determine the occurrence or non-occurrence of a fingerprint recognition event, the processor120may check whether the intensity of the pressure generated by the touch input for the object exceeds a predefined reference intensity. For instance, when the intensity of the pressure generated by the touch input for the object is equal to or is less than the reference intensity, the processor120may periodically or continuously compare the intensity of the pressure generated by the touch input for the object and the reference intensity, until the touch input for the object is released.

In operation803, when the pressure intensity of the object exceeds the reference intensity, the electronic device may activate a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch region. For example, when the pressure intensity of the object exceeds the reference intensity, the processor120may determine that a fingerprint authentication event has occurred. When detecting the occurrence of the fingerprint authentication event, the processor120may set, as the fingerprint recognition region, at least a partial region of the finger scan sensor overlapped with the touch region where the touch input for the object has been detected. The finger scan sensor (e.g., fingerprint panel164) may activate the at least partial region that the processor120has set as the fingerprint recognition region.

In operation805, the electronic device may check whether a fingerprint image is detected through the fingerprint recognition region which has been set based on the pressure intensity of the object. For example, the processor120may check whether a user's fingerprint image is detected, by recognizing a ridge pattern generated by a finger having come in contact with the fingerprint recognition region of the finger scan sensor. For instance, the processor120may check whether at least a part of a user fingerprint corresponding to a touch input for an object is detected.

In operation807, when the pressure intensity of the object is less than the reference intensity, or the fingerprint image is not detected through the fingerprint recognition region, the electronic device may perform a function corresponding to the touch input for the object.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may determine the occurrence or non-occurrence of a fingerprint recognition event, based on a touch area of an object. For example, to perform fingerprint recognition through a touch input for the object, a user of the electronic device101maintains the touch input for the object during a constant time, so the touch area of the object may increase. Accordingly, when the touch area of the object exceeds a reference area, the processor120may determine that the fingerprint recognition event for performing the fingerprint recognition corresponding to the object has occurred.

FIG. 9illustrates a flowchart for selectively setting a fingerprint recognition region based on fingerprint setting or non-setting of an object in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, an operation for detecting a fingerprint of a touch region in operation305ofFIG. 3is described. In the following description, the electronic device may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 9, in operation901, when detecting a touch input for at least one object displayed at a display (e.g., operation303ofFIG. 3), the electronic device may check whether a function according to user authentication has been set to an object in which a touch input has been detected. For example, the processor120may check whether a function to be carried out through a reference fingerprint image for user authentication, which is mapped to the object in which the touch input has been detected in a mapping table stored in the memory130, and the user authentication.

In operation903, when the function according to the user authentication has been set to the object in which the touch input has been sensed, the electronic device may activate a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch region. For example, when the function according to the user authentication has been set to the object in which the touch input has been sensed, the processor120may determine that a fingerprint authentication event for the object in which the touch input has been sensed has occurred. Accordingly, the processor120may set, as the fingerprint recognition region, at least a partial region of a finger scan sensor overlapped with the touch region where the touch input for the object has been detected. The processor120may control the finger scan sensor such that the at least partial region of the finger scan sensor corresponding to the fingerprint recognition region is activated. That is, the finger scan sensor may maintain a remnant region other than the fingerprint recognition region, in an inactive state.

In operation905, the electronic device may check whether a user's fingerprint image is detected through the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch region of the object. For example, when selecting an object of a relatively small size among a plurality of objects displayed at the display160, a user of the electronic device101may select the corresponding object by using at least a part of the finger's last joint as inFIG. 5A. Accordingly, the processor120may check whether a fingerprint image of the at least part of the finger's last joint having come in contact with the fingerprint recognition region corresponding to the touch region of the object is detected.

In operation907, when the function according to the user authentication has not been set to the object in which the touch input has been sensed, or the fingerprint image is not detected through the fingerprint recognition region, the electronic device may perform a function corresponding to the touch input for the object. For example, when detecting a touch input for an icon of a phone application among a plurality of objects displayed at the display160as inFIG. 4A, the processor120may execute the phone application. The processor120may control the display160to display general information (i.e., virtual key button) corresponding to the execution of the phone application.

FIG. 10illustrates a flowchart for performing fingerprint recognition by using a fingerprint recognition region in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.FIGS. 11A to 11Dillustrate a screen configuration of notification information for fingerprint recognition according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, an operation for detecting a fingerprint through an enlarged fingerprint recognition region in operation307to operation309ofFIG. 3is described. In the following description, the electronic device may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 10, in operation1001, when detecting at least a part of a user fingerprint through a fingerprint recognition region corresponding to a touch region of an object (e.g., operation305ofFIG. 3), the electronic device may compare a size of a fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region and a reference size. For example, a user of the electronic device101may touch the corresponding object in various forms, based on sizes of a plurality of objects displayed at the display160. In more detail, when selecting an object of a relatively small size like state information displayed at an upper end of the display160, the user of the electronic device101may touch the corresponding object by using at least a part500of the finger's last joint as inFIG. 5A. On the other hand, when selecting an object of a relatively large size like an icon of an application, the user of the electronic device101may touch the corresponding object by using the majority510of the finger's last joint as inFIG. 5B. For instance, when a size of at least a part of a user fingerprint is smaller than a reference size, the processor120may determine that a reliability of user authentication utilizing a corresponding fingerprint image is deteriorated. For instance, when the size of the at least part of the user fingerprint is larger than the reference size, the processor120may determine that the user authentication utilizing the corresponding fingerprint image is reliable.

In operation1003, when the size of the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region is smaller than or is equal to the reference size, the electronic device may enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region. For example, when the size of the fingerprint image detected in operation705ofFIG. 7, operation805ofFIG. 8, or operation905ofFIG. 9is smaller than or is equal to the reference size, the processor120may determine that the reliability of the user authentication utilizing the corresponding fingerprint image is deteriorated. Accordingly, to enhance the reliability of user authentication, the processor120may control the finger scan sensor (i.e., the fingerprint panel164) to enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region. For instance, the processor120may determine a size for enlarging the fingerprint recognition region based on a size of at least one reference fingerprint image stored in the memory120.

In operation1005, the electronic device may detect a user's fingerprint image through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region. For example, when enlarging the fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may control the display160to display a message1100or1120(e.g., “Input a fingerprint”) of requesting a fingerprint input as inFIG. 11AorFIG. 11Cso that a user may recognize a fingerprint recognition operation. Additionally or alternatively, the processor120may change a display variable of a display panel corresponding to the fingerprint recognition region differently from a remnant region so that the user may recognize the fingerprint recognition region. When a user's contact (i.e., touch) for the enlarged fingerprint recognition region is sensed, the processor120may detect a user's fingerprint image through a finger scan sensor.

In operation1007, the electronic device may perform user authentication by using the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region. For example, the processor120may compare at least one reference fingerprint image stored in the memory130and the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region. When detecting a reference fingerprint image matched with the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may determine that it has succeeded in the user authentication. When not detecting the reference fingerprint image matched with the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may determine that it has failed in the user authentication.

In operation1011, when failing in user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the electronic device may output information of requesting re-authentication. For example, as inFIG. 11BorFIG. 11D, the processor120may control the display160to display a message1110or1130(e.g., “Input a fingerprint again”) of requesting the user's fingerprint re-input. For instance, when displaying the message1110or1130of requesting the user's fingerprint re-input, and not detecting an additional fingerprint input until a reference time lapses, the processor120may determine that it has failed in detecting the fingerprint image for the user authentication. For instance, the processor120may selectively display the message1110or1130of requesting the user's fingerprint re-input based on a re-authentication request count. In more detail, when the re-authentication request count exceeds a reference count, the processor120may determine that the user authentication is impossible, and terminate a re-authentication request.

In operation1009, when having succeeded in the user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image detected through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region, the electronic device may perform an operation or function corresponding to fingerprint authentication of an object. For example, when having succeeded in fingerprint authentication of an icon of a phone application displayed at the display160as inFIG. 4A, the processor120may perform a call connection to a predefined phone number by executing the phone application. For example, when having succeeded in the fingerprint authentication of the icon of the phone application displayed at the display160as inFIG. 4A, the processor120may control the display160to display private information corresponding to the phone application by executing the phone application.

When the size of the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region is larger than the reference size, in operation1013, the electronic device may perform user authentication by using the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region. For example, when the size of the fingerprint image detected in operation705ofFIG. 7, operation805ofFIG. 8, or operation905ofFIG. 9is larger than the reference size, the processor120may determine that the user authentication utilizing the corresponding fingerprint image is reliable. Accordingly, the processor120may check whether a reference fingerprint image corresponding to the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region exists in the memory103. When detecting a reference fingerprint image matched with the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may determine that it has succeeded in the user authentication. When not detecting the reference fingerprint image matched with the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region, the processor120may determine that it has failed in the user authentication.

When having failed in the user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region, in operation1003, the electronic device may enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region. For example, the processor120may determine the enlargement size of the fingerprint recognition region, based on the size of the reference fingerprint image stored in the memory130. The processor120may control the finger scan sensor to enlarge the fingerprint recognition region to a size corresponding to the enlargement size of the fingerprint recognition region. For instance, the processor120may determine the enlargement size of the fingerprint recognition region to correspond to the longest horizontal distance and longest vertical distance detected from at least one reference fingerprint image stored in the memory130.

When having succeeded in the user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region, in operation1009, the electronic device may perform the operation or function corresponding to the fingerprint authentication of the object.

FIG. 12illustrates a flowchart for setting a size of a fingerprint recognition region in an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, an operation for enlarging the size of the fingerprint recognition region in operation1003ofFIG. 10is described. In the following description, the electronic device may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 12, in operation1201, when determining to additionally authenticate a user's fingerprint (e.g., operation1001ofFIG. 10), the electronic device may identify a size of at least one reference fingerprint image for fingerprint authentication. For example, the processor120may store, in the memory130, at least one reference fingerprint image that becomes a reference for authenticating a user by using a fingerprint image. When enlarging a fingerprint recognition region so as to additionally authenticate a user's fingerprint, the processor120may identify a size of each reference fingerprint image previously stored in the memory130. For instance, the size of the reference fingerprint image may be the shortest length (e.g., horizontal length) and the longest length (e.g., vertical length) in the fingerprint image.

In operation1203, the electronic device may determine a size for enlarging the fingerprint recognition region, based on the size of the reference fingerprint image. For example, the processor120may determine the size for enlarging the fingerprint recognition region to include a size of the largest reference fingerprint image among at least one reference fingerprint image stored in the memory130.

In operation1205, the electronic device may enlarge the fingerprint recognition region to correspond to the size for enlarging the fingerprint recognition region. For example, the processor120may control a finger scan sensor to enlarge a region that is activated in the finger scan sensor to correspond to the size for enlarging the fingerprint recognition region. Additionally or alternatively, the display160may change a display variable such that at least a partial region of a display panel corresponding to the fingerprint recognition region is distinguished from a remnant region.

FIGS. 13A to 13Eillustrate a screen configuration for providing a service corresponding to fingerprint authentication of an object according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following description, the electronic device1300may include the electronic device101ofFIG. 1Aor at least a part (e.g., the processor120) of the electronic device101.

Referring toFIG. 13A, the electronic device1300may display a service screen at a display1310. For example, when operating in an idle mode, as inFIG. 13A, the electronic device1300may display, at the display1310, a service screen including state information (e.g., wireless LAN activity information, a battery level, and time information) of the electronic device1300, a widget, and an icon of at least one application.

Referring toFIG. 13B, when detecting a drag input1312for an upper end of the display1310, as inFIG. 13B, the electronic device1300may display a quick panel1320in at least a part of the display1310. For example, the electronic device1300may display the quick panel1320by using an additional display layer disposed at an upper end of a display layer displaying a service screen. For instance, the quick panel1320may include at least one icon1322for control menu setting, and at least one notification information1324.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1300may detect a fingerprint image corresponding to a touch input for a specific object among a plurality of objects1322and1324included in the quick panel1320. For example, the electronic device1300may detect a touch input for e-mail reception information1330among the notification information1324included in the quick panel1320. The electronic device1300may check whether a fingerprint authentication event occurs based on setting or non-setting of a function corresponding to touch information (e.g., a touch holding time or a pressure intensity) on the e-mail reception information1330or user authentication. When detecting the occurrence of the fingerprint authentication event, the electronic device1300may set, as a fingerprint recognition region, at least a part of a finger scan sensor corresponding to a touch region of the e-mail reception information1330and activate the same.

Referring toFIG. 13C, the electronic device1300may detect a fingerprint image1340through the fingerprint recognition region. For instance, the electronic device1300may detect a fingerprint image corresponding to at least a part of a user fingerprint, in accordance with the form of a finger that touches the e-mail reception information1330.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device1300may enlarge a fingerprint recognition region for the sake of user authentication. For example, when detecting a user's fingerprint image through a touch region of the e-mail reception information1330, the electronic device1300may identify a size (or area) of the fingerprint image. When the size of the fingerprint image exceeds a reference size, the electronic device1300may perform user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image detected through the touch region of the e-mail reception information1330. When the size of the fingerprint image is smaller than the reference size, the electronic device1300may determine that a reliability of the user authentication using the fingerprint image detected through the touch region of the e-mail reception information1330is deteriorated.

Referring toFIG. 13D, the electronic device1300may enlarge the size of the fingerprint recognition region1350. For instance, the electronic device1300may display to distinguish the fingerprint recognition region from a remnant region so that the user may recognize the fingerprint recognition region.

According to an embodiment, as inFIG. 13D, the electronic device1300may additionally detect a user's fingerprint image through the enlarged fingerprint recognition region1350. The processor1300may check whether a user is authenticated, by comparing the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region1350and at least one reference fingerprint image previously stored in the memory. When authenticating the user through the fingerprint image, the electronic device1300may perform an operation or function mapped to the user authentication of the e-mail reception information1330. For example, when succeeding in the user authentication through the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region1350, the electronic device1300may set a security for a received e-mail corresponding to the e-mail reception information1330. According to an embodiment, as inFIG. 13E, the electronic device1300may additionally set a security and display an indication1360for the security. For instance, when a security has been set for the received e-mail corresponding to the e-mail reception information1330, the electronic device1300may release security setting for the corresponding e-mail, based on the user authentication utilizing the fingerprint image detected through the fingerprint recognition region1350as well.

An electronic device and an operating method thereof according to various embodiments may activate at least a partial region of a finger scan sensor as a fingerprint recognition region, based on a selection input (e.g., touch input) of an object displayed at a display, and perform fingerprint recognition, thereby simplifying a user interface for the fingerprint recognition, and reducing power consumption caused by the fingerprint recognition.

An electronic device and an operating method thereof according to various embodiments may, when having succeeded in fingerprint authentication corresponding to a selection input for an object displayed at a display, provide various services having been set to the object, thereby providing various user interfaces utilizing a fingerprint.

The term “module” as used herein may include a unit consisting of hardware, software, or firmware, and may, for example, be used interchangeably with the term “logic”, “logical block”, “component”, “circuit”, or the like. The “module” may be an integrated component, or a minimum unit for performing one or more functions or a part thereof. The “module” may be mechanically or electronically implemented and may include, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip, a field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or a programmable-logic device, which has been known or are to be developed in the future, for performing certain operations.

At least some of devices (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or methods (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be implemented by an instruction which is stored a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., the memory130) in the form of a program module. The instruction, when executed by a processor (e.g., the processor120), may cause the one or more processors to execute the function corresponding to the instruction. The computer-readable storage medium may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic medium (e.g., a magnetic tape), an optical media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD), a magneto-optical media (e.g., a floptical disk), an inner memory, etc. The instruction may include a code made by a complier or a code that can be executed by an interpreter. The programming module according to the present disclosure may include one or more of the aforementioned elements or may further include other additional elements, or some of the aforementioned elements may be omitted.

Operations performed by a module, a programming module, or other elements according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or in a heuristic manner. At least some operations may be executed according to another sequence, may be omitted, or may further include other operations.