IPhone Fingerprint Reader Talk Boosting Biometric Stocks. As the technology world buzzes with speculation that the next iPhone will have a fingerprint reader, makers of biometric security devices are bracing for a race among smartphone makers to adopt the technology. Apple Inc. (AAPL) will unveil a new iPhone next month, according to a person familiar with the plans. ABI Research and KGI Securities Co. are among the industry watchers that say the device will include a fingerprint reader, a prediction bolstered by Apple’s $350 million purchase of fingerprint- sensor maker AuthenTec Inc. last year. “Apple is giving a strong indication that market leaders see biometrics as part of their roadmap,” said Thomas Marschall, chief executive officer of Precise Biometrics AB (PREC), a maker of authentication equipment such as fingerprint sensors in Lund, Sweden. “All competitors are looking for alternatives to match Apple -- it’s the kickoff of a rally in the industry.” Mobile-d...