Criminals who steal mobile phones may be confronted with a face-recognition test if they want to use the handset, thanks to the development of face recognition software by Oki Electric Industry.

The company's Face Sensing Engine software decodes facial images and restricts phone access to all but the registered user.

Oki claimed that the software will eliminate the need for users to enter passwords to use their devices, and provide a faster, more natural method of authentication.

The software works by locating and mapping key facial features - such as eyes, eyebrows and mouth - and adapts to changing facial behaviour such as winking and smiling.

Oki said that the technology could be applied to other embedded applications, such as games. The company's goal is to sign up at least 500 10,000-unit licensees within the next two years.