News Facial recognition for train passengers introduced in Chiba

Yamaman (山万株式会社), a train operator and real estate developer, has launched a new facial recognition boarding system on the Yamaman Yukarigaoka Line in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture. This marks the first practical application of such technology for general passengers in Japan's public transport. Registered users can pass through ticket gates equipped with cameras that recognize their faces, eliminating the need for physical tickets. The system extends to Yamaman's bus service and requires pre-registration of facial photos and credit card details on a dedicated website. Commuter pass holders can also benefit from this seamless travel experience.

The company expects to see an increase in the number of users of the facial recognition system as commuters are seen opting for the system when they renew their passes. An official of Yamaman, which also runs a real estate business, said that the company wants to introduce the system to the whole community. Facial recognition systems, including for train ticket gates, are being tested in many parts of the country. Osaka Metro, which offers subway services mainly in the city of Osaka, has introduced a facial recognition system for its employees on a trial basis.

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I saw this on the news yesterday. Facial recognition also works with masks OR sunglasses, not masks AND sunglasses.

Ahh, no thanks for me. You can't convince me that the DB of facial photos won't end up being sold to one, or very likely many, advertising agencies.

Hard to believe this is worth the investment. Not to mention the privacy risk. That being said, I was facial-recognized to board Delta a couple days ago and facial recognized to enter Japan and walk through customs.