Disney is Testing Facial Recognition at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World started testing out facial recognition technology software in the Magic Kingdom, which could change the way you enter the park.

What’s going on?

Per WESH, the new technology will capture an image of a guest’s face. It will convert that face into a number, which will then be used to confirm the guest’s entry into the theme park.

Disney told WESH that participating in the technology’s test run remains optional.

• “At Walt Disney World Resort, we’re always looking for innovative and convenient ways to improve our guests’ experience — especially as we navigate the impact of COVID-19. With the future in mind and the shift in focus to more touchless experiences, we’re conducting a limited 30-day test using facial recognition technology,” Disney said, according to WESH.

More details

• The test phase of the technology will run from March 23 to April 23.
• Children can test out the function, too. However, if they’re under 18, they must have approval from parents, per USA Today.
• To embrace the test phase, visitors can join a specific line using the technology. They will be asked to remove their accessories before they enter through the gate. And yes, masks are still required, which suggests the technology will work with face masks, according to USA Today.
• Guests who use the technology and leave and then return to the park have been asked to use the same lane so Disney can understand how the technology works, according to People magazine.

Why it matters

Disney said this technology won’t be used for any other purpose than to test the technology.

“Images and the associated unique numbers captured for this technology test will be discarded within 30 days after the test concludes,” Disney’s website reads. “We will not share the images and unique numbers captured for this test with third parties.”

Source: Herb Scribner | Deseret News