Passwords continue to be a popular way to secure access to the growing number of online accounts we all have. But best practice demands we never use the same password twice and change them regularly, which is why password managers are so vital. Inevitably, we forget a password and require a hint. Hint questions aren't exactly secure, though, so Samsung is looking to replace them with a palm reading.

As Engadget reports, a patent application filed by Samsung describes a system whereby a smartphone can scan a user's palm to act as a unique security check. The lines visible on your palm are unique and therefore form a reliable biometric check.

The patent describes a system that would be used to unlock a password hint rather than being used as the security check performed to access an account. Once scanned, the user would be presented with a hint in the form of a visual test where they have to complete a known character pattern displayed on the screen and linked to your palm lines.

As it is only being considered as a password hint, Samsung clearly thinks it is secure, but not secure enough to act as a first tier security test. However, that could change if the scan can be made to capture more detail and depth sensing is implemented so as to recognize when someone is attempting to use a photograph of a palm.

For now, this is just a patent application. If Samsung is planning to add this feature to its phones, then the Galaxy S9 could be the first to get it next year.