BIO-key International, a provider of finger-based biometric identification and wireless public safety solutions, has released PocketCop version 3.5 for BlackBerry (News - Alert) smartphones from Research In Motion (RIM).

 

PocketCop enables secure access to federal and state law enforcement and motor vehicles databases from handheld devices. According to BIO-key, with PocketCop, officers on foot, motorcycle, bike, marine and mounted patrol, and also investigators and command-level staff, can identify a wanted person or stolen vehicle directly from a BlackBerry smartphone.

 

The latest version features CAD integration, which enables PocketCop users to receive dispatch information directly from the agency’s computer-aided dispatch system and send status updates to CAD silently and securely.

 

Company officials explained that this scanner-proof automated feature minimizes radio communication between the dispatcher and the officer in the street. In addition, PocketCop version 3.5 uses BlackBerry wireless platform’s built-in web browser.

 

PocketCop end-user can also can download and activate the PocketCop thin client application software from any location with “Over- the-Air” deployment, which makes

PocketCop enabled BlackBerry smartphone fully operational in the field, according to officials.

 

Also, PocketCop version 3.5 allows automatic software updating, which is expected to enable future software enhancements on all deployed handsets.

 

Michael DePasquale, CEO at Bio-key, indicating that CAD integration on BlackBerry smartphones is a significant advantage to the user agency, added that it keeps all of the department’s officers and investigators informed and connected.

 

He also said in a statement, “And, with over the air deployment and updates, the savings in man-hours quickly provides a rapid return on investment by keeping IT personnel focused on the rest of the department's needs.”

 

BIO-key is a member of the BlackBerry ISV Alliance program. BIO-key informs that all BlackBerry smartphone models running BlackBerry device software versions 4.1 through 4.3 have been certified for PocketCop version 3.5.