How Does Safran Identity & Security (Safran I&S) Company Work?

Safran I&S operations are built on deep expertise in biometrics and cryptography. The company develops cutting-edge solutions like automated fingerprint identification systems and facial recognition.

The company's value proposition centers on its 'Augmented Identity' approach. This places biometric characteristics at the core of individual identity, enabling secure exchanges in a connected world.

Safran I&S offers a comprehensive portfolio including biometric terminals, e-gates, and secure identification documents. They also provide solutions for secure elements, eSIMs, and subscription management for the Internet of Things.

With a workforce of approximately 12,500 employees across six continents, Safran I&S serves clients in 180 countries. The company has invested over €1 billion in R&D over five years to drive continuous innovation.

In 2017, Safran I&S was acquired by Oberthur Technologies (OT), leading to the formation of IDEMIA. This merger combined Safran's biometric and identity solutions with OT's digital embedded security capabilities, establishing a new global entity focused on identification and authentication technologies.

IDEMIA reorganized into three divisions in January 2024: IDEMIA Secure Transactions (IST), IDEMIA Public Security (IPS), and IDEMIA Smart Identity (ISI). Furthermore, in September 2024, exclusive negotiations began with IN Groupe for the acquisition of IDEMIA Smart Identity, a move expected to finalize in 2025.

IDEMIA's competitive edge is built on its technological prowess, demonstrated by consistent top rankings in NIST evaluations for biometric technologies. The company holds over 1,500 active patent families in biometrics and cryptography, underscoring its commitment to innovation.

Serving clients in over 180 countries, IDEMIA leverages its extensive global presence and strategic partnerships to maintain its market position. Investments in areas like post-quantum cryptography, exemplified by its hardware accelerator announcement in March 2025, highlight its forward-looking strategy.

Safran I&S holds a strong market standing, particularly in the global fingerprint scanner market where it captured an 18.71% share in 2024. It is recognized as a prominent player in the broader Biometrics and Identity Market, extending its services across over 180 countries. The company supports a vast clientele, including 1,900 financial institutions and FinTechs, 500 mobile operators, and provides Driver's License solutions for two-thirds of US states.

The dynamic nature of the digital security and identity solutions market presents several risks. Intense competition from major players like Thales Group and NEC Corporation, coupled with evolving regulatory landscapes and the persistent threat of cyberattacks, could impact Safran I&S operations and revenue streams. The potential sale of its Smart Identity division to IN Groupe, anticipated in 2025, may also lead to a shift in its market focus.

Safran I&S is committed to sustained revenue generation through ongoing innovation and strategic partnerships. The company's recent reorganization into three divisions—IDEMIA Secure Transactions, IDEMIA Public Security, and IDEMIA Smart Identity—aims to foster growth and enhance customer engagement. Strategic investments are being directed towards advanced technologies, including post-quantum cryptography, and expanding services in mobile payments and IoT security.

The company is focused on enhancing its capabilities in digital government services and strengthening its position in areas like mobile payments and IoT security. Safran I&S Public Security, in particular, is poised to meet evolving customer demands in 2025 by leveraging leading technologies to support client missions. This strategic direction is geared towards securing daily critical activities in both physical and digital realms, ultimately contributing to a safer future for citizens and consumers.