‘Smile to Pay’ is now a happening thing. Alibaba and KFC have teamed up in Hangzhou, China launching a ‘smile to pay’ service. Customers can order KFC and then pay with a smile.

 

A 3D Camera scans the customer’s face using facial recognition software to verify their identity. Customers can opt in for an additional mobile no. verification option for additional security.

 

Customers have to be registered with the Alibaba app to use the ‘smile to pay’ service

link to full article

 

Why would these customers allow a facial recognition system to scan their faces? Perhaps because it is easier and safer then carrying around a wallet.

 

According to a Visa survey taken last year, 86% of respondents were “interested in using biometrics to verify or to make payments.” Ease of use and better security were cited as the two main reasons.

As mentioned in last month’s blog New Zealand is starting to use facial recognition technology in a retail setting. Foodstuffs have rolled out facial technology software at some of it’s North Island stores for identifying and prosecution of shoplifters.

 

It will be interesting to watch the development and pick up of similar software going forward. How will it be managed? Who has access to the data? How accurate is it? How will it affect us? And most importantly when do we get to smile and pay for our KFC?