As predicted, Photo Validation has come to Universal Studios Florida. Universal Orlando Resort has been using a new photo validation system for guests entering the theme parks. The new system debuted over at Islands of Adventure last month, with cameras added to the entrance scanners. Now, facial recognition cameras have been added to the entry points at Universal Studios Florida, too.
As we approached the newly refurbished entrances to Universal Studios Florida the other day, we spotted the addition of these facial recognition cameras. The silver around the monitor really makes these stand out a little more than the ones at Islands of Adventure. Scanners were installed at the entrance and exit of the park, but only a few of them were in use.
Even though Photo Validation is currently in technical rehearsal, it is most likely here to stay. Photo Validation is in the plans for Epic Universe as well. Of course, guests can opt out of having their photo taken by providing a valid photo ID. Make sure you have your ticket and your valid photo ID ready to present to the Team Member at the entrance if you choose to opt out of Photo Validation.
To make the experience smoother, make sure the correct person is standing in front of the screen when scanning a ticket. If you have multiple tickets on one phone, ask each person to stand in front of the camera one at a time as you scan their ticket. Standing in front of the camera and scanning multiple tickets for different people will cause issues, so be sure the correct person is in front of the camera when scanning each ticket.
Guests will scan their tickets and then look at the camera rather than using a finger scan. There is a QR code on the sign with more details about the new Photo Validation process at Universal Orlando.
What is Photo Validation?
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!
How is Photo Validation being used at Universal Islands of Adventure?
Photo Validation is used to to access select experiences – including verifying tickets and ticket holders at Universal Islands of Adventure Park Entry. Photo Validation is currently in Technical Rehearsal and will be available on a limited and unscheduled basis. Guests may continue to use their finger scan at lanes without Photo Validation during Technical Rehearsal.
Are Guests required to use Photo Validation?
Using Photo Validation is optional. You may opt out at Park Entry, or at Guest Services. If you decide to opt out of Photo Validation, you will continue to enter the park using the same lanes as guests who do use Photo Validation. Adults who decide to opt-out will be required to present a Photo ID to validate their ticket.
What data does Photo Validation collect?
We take a photo the first time you use your ticket. From that photo, the software builds a Photo Template. A Photo Template is a unique set of data points based on facial features. On subsequent entries to Universal Islands of Adventure, a new Photo Template is created and will be compared to the stored template to validate your ticket or other entitlement.
How long will Photo Validation data be stored in your system?
Photo Templates and images will be stored for no longer than six months after the expiration of the associated ticket or other entitlement. This is consistent with our entrance finger scan process.
Are you looking forward to seeing Photo Validation used at Universal Orlando in the future? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned for more updates.