Universal Orlando recently began testing photo validation (or facial recognition) technology for entry to Universal Islands of Adventure ticket booths. We entered the theme park by this method during our most recent visit.
We genuinely dislike the fingerprint scanning method of entry at Universal Orlando Resort’s theme parks. After visiting for many years, we grow weary of being asked,” Is that the same finger you used before?” The fingerprint scanning system at Universal Orlando helps with fraud. Yet, it lacks consistency. Just like at other major theme park resorts in the Orlando area, queues often back up at Universal Orlando when fingerprints do not scan properly.
Though this has been tried before at Universal Orlando in other ways, a new facial (or photo) recognition system started being used on a limited basis at Universal Islands of Adventure. The photo validation/facial recognition testing “turnstiles” were on the right of the entry area to Universal Islands of Adventure when we visited this past weekend.
The other entry points continued to use the standard fingerprint scanning option. Though signage indicates photo validation testing is happening, most guests we checked with did not realize the facial scanning was optional.
Photo Validation Entry
The process, at least when we visited, worked very simply. Guests approach the turnstiles and have their tickets scanned by the team members. After that, they stand in a specific spot for their photo to be taken, linking it to the ticket media. The first visit with each ticket or pass will require your photo to be taken. After that, on following visits, this should empower quicker entry into the theme parks after the system recognizes your face. Once the scan is validated, guests enter the park as usual.
Universal Orlando updated its privacy policy webpage. The website states, “Photo Validation is a new, faster, and more seamless way to begin your visit to Universal Islands of Adventure – you just scan, smile, and go!”
We found the system works better than the fingerprint scanners. Also, we did not have a feeling of an invasion of privacy over our annual pass being linked to a photo of us. We are well aware that all the Orlando area theme parks already have pictures of our faces for other reasons.
Like many other things going on currently at the two Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, trails are being conducted in preparation for Universal’s Epic Universe opening in 2025. Informed sources indicate that Universal Orlando Resort plans to utilize facial or photo validation at Universal’s Epic Universe when it opens.
As mentioned earlier, Universal Orlando Resort has attempted to use similar technology before. In those cases, those plans were abandoned. We lack concrete information about the length of this test.
Remember, you can opt out of this photo validation testing. Also, you may enter one of the turnstiles not using this system. Let us know when you visit about how it worked for you.
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