Latvian biometric startup Handwave has raised $4.2 million in seed funding to roll out its palm-based payment and identity platform across Europe and the U.S., replacing wallets, apps, and facial recognition with a simple, secure palm scan. The proprietary tech captures both surface lines and subdermal vein patterns to create an encrypted, user-controlled ID that links to payment methods, loyalty programs, and age verification, offering 2-factor authentication without tracking users. Backed by investors like Practica Capital and FirstPick, Handwave plans to launch live retail pilots, achieve regulatory certifications, and deepen partnerships with merchants, retailers, and financial institutions.
Handwave Raises $4.2M to Launch Palm-based Payments in Europe and US.