Time-of-Flight Sensors (ToF) have been around for quite some time now. However, with the advancements of sophisticated applications and most recently, artificial intelligence and machine learning, ToF sensor s have become increasingly popular.

Among ToF’s first applications include radars. Moreover, its modern applications have encompassed robotics, automotive, industrial automation, gaming, and even consumer electronics.

Recently, semiconductor company STMicroelectronics has introduced its new Human Presence Detection (HPD) technology for use in notebook computers, desktop computers, monitors, and other accessories. Essentially, the technology enables to reduce more than 20 percent power consumption per day and at the same time provides improved security and privacy on devices.

Ready-to-Use Solution for OEMs

The HPD technology features ST’s proprietary solution combines market-leading FlightSense™ Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors with unique AI algorithms to deliver a hands-free fast Windows Hello authentication; and delivers a range of benefits such as longer battery lifetime, and user-privacy or wellness notifications.

“Building on the integration of ST FlightSense technology in more than 260 laptops and PC models launched in recent years, we are looking forward to see our new HPD solution contributing to make devices more energy-efficient, secure, and user-friendly,” said Alexandre Balmefrezol, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Imaging Sub-Group at STMicroelectronics.

In addition, Balmefrezol said AI and sensor technologies continue to advance with greater integration of both hardware and software. For that reason, Balmefrezol said the industry can expect to see even more sophisticated and intuitive ways of interacting with devices.

By integrating hardware and software components by design, the new ST solution is a readily deployable system based on the company’s VL53L8CP FlightSense 8×8 multizones Time-of-Flight sensor. Moreover, ST complements this with its proprietary AI-based algorithms. Thus, enabling functionalities such as human presence detection, multi-person detection, and head orientation tracking. This integration creates a unique ready-to-use solution for OEMs that requires no additional development for them.

This 5th generation of sensors also integrates advanced features such as gesture recognition, hand posture recognition, and wellness monitoring through human posture analysis.

Enables Enhanced Features

Primarily, ST’s HPD solution provides adaptive screen dimming, which tracks head orientation to dim the screen when the user is not looking. Therefore, can reduce power consumption by 20 percent.

Also, it offers a walk-away lock and wake-on-attention feature, which automatically locks a device when the user leaves and wakes up upon return, improving security and convenience. Furthermore, the multi-person detection feature alerts the user if someone is looking over their shoulder, enhancing privacy.

What makes all these features also possible is ST’s comprehensive AI-based development process in a mass-market product.

29 June 2025