New Universal Studios in Beijing to use facial recognition for guest access

October 21, 2019

The developers of the Universal Beijing Resort have announced they will install facial recognition technology to allow for ticketless entry to the under-construction theme park and entertainment complex.

The technology is part of a host of services owned by Chinese internet giant Alibaba that will be integrated into the park, the companies announced at a press event in Beijing last week.

The biometric technology is linked to Alibaba’s Alipay electronic payment platform that will also allow visitors to open storage lockers, pay for meals and join express queues for rides. The Alipay app is widely used in China alongside rival WeChat Pay as an alternative to cash.

Brian Roberts, Chief Executive of Universal Studios owner Comcast, explained “there is no more seamless way to enjoy what we’re building than using the Alibaba technology

However, those who don’t wish to have their faces scanned will still be able to enter the park and pay for food and merchandise via other means, Universal staff told AFP.

Universal’s Beijing park, which will feature characters like Harry Potter and Kung Fu Panda, was first announced in 2014.

Construction is under way in the suburb of Tongzhou in the Chinese capital with the attraction scheduled to open in 2021.

Image: The planned Jurassic Park ride at Universal Beijing Resort. Courtesy of Universal Studios/Universal Beijing Resort.

26th September 2019 - Queensland tourism boosted by partnership with Alipay

22nd September 2019 - 2021 opening announced for Universal Beijing Resort

23rd August 2019 - England’s Manchester City warned against using facial recognition on fans

5th August 2019 - Reports chart ongoing growth of Chinese theme parks

15th July 2019 - Alipay unveils 1 billion yuan initiative to support women’s football in China

19th July 2019 - Alibaba secures Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics ticketing contract

5th June 2019 - Privacy Commissioner questions use of facial recognition technology at Queensland stadiums

14th December 2018 - Facial recognition software used to detect security risks at Taylor Swift Los Angeles concert

13th November 2018 - AliPay and WeChat with CustomLinc integration now available in Australia

7th August 2018 - Tokyo Olympics organisers confirm use of facial recognition technology for 2020 Games

3rd December 2017 - Tokyo Disneyland looks to introduce facial recognition for pass holder access

6th October 2017 - Tom Mehrmann named President and General Manager of Universal Beijing development

15th November 2016 - Investments in China’s theme parks driving Asian tourism

28th October 2016 - End of the road for Dubai Universal Studios Theme Park plan

2nd August 2016 - Universal Studios Japan to bring ‘Godzilla’ to life via 4D attraction

23rd April 2013 - Biometrics enhance Locker Room Security

Asking a small favour
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?

The news we publish at www.ausleisure.com.au is independent, credible (we hope) and free for you to access, with no pay walls and no annoying pop-up ads.

However, as an independent publisher, can we ask for you to support us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine - if you don't already do so.

Published bi-monthly since 1997, the printed Australasian Leisure Management differs from this website in that it publishes longer, in-depth and analytical features covering aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues management.

Subscriptions cost just $90 a year.

Click here to subscribe.