First implemented in October 2023, the facial recognition scanners haven’t been a main point of entry for Universal Islands of Adventure recently. But we noticed that they have returned.
Facial Recognition For Entry
During a visit on April 5, we noticed the facial recognition devices were available again at Universal Islands of Adventure. The machines are still often used for the passholder line, but haven’t been available for non-passholder ticket entry for some time—potentially even since 2025.
Photo recognition entry is not required, and guests may opt out of it.
The facial recognition machines for the non-passholder ticket entry were not in use this past weekend either. This technology is not currently in use at Universal Studios Florida, which implemented it about a month after Universal Islands of Adventure in November 2023.
Facial recognition cameras were later installed in 2024 at express lanes throughout Universal Studios Florida.
Here is the updated information about photo validation/facial scanning from Universal Orlando’s Privacy Info Center. As a note, although this webpage appears to be current and on the site, it still refers to the photo recognition “technical rehearsal period” which took place a few years ago.
What is Photo Validation?
Photo Validation is a faster and more seamless way for our Guests to access select experiences throughout Universal Orlando Resort during their visit.
How is Photo Validation being used at Universal Orlando?
We use Photo Validation to verify tickets and ticket holders – making it a faster and more seamless way for our guests to access select experiences during their visit. Photo Validation is currently used at the park entrances of Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, and Universal Volcano Bay. Now, Guests may also use Photo Validation to verify and use their Universal Express Pass at select attractions throughout Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida during this technical rehearsal period.
Are Guests required to use Photo Validation?
This process is completely optional, and guests can choose to opt out if they’d like. Guests may opt-out at the park entrance, Guest Services, or in Universal Express lines at select attractions during the technical rehearsal period before, during or after enrollment. If opting out, adult Guests will be instructed to present a valid photo ID, as well as their tickets and Universal Express Passes.
How long will photos be stored in your system?
Photos and Photo Templates will be securely stored for no longer than six months after the expiration of the associated ticket or admission product. This is consistent with our legacy finger scan biometric process that was in place for many years.
If I opt out after using Photo Validation for the first time, is my information deleted?
Once a guest opts out of Photo Validation, any photos or Photo Templates created / stored are deleted.
Can a Guest opt back into Photo Validation?
Yes, Guests who opt-out and want to enroll in Photo Validation can do so at the park entrance, Guest Services, or in Universal Express lines at select attractions during the technical rehearsal period.
What data does Photo Validation collect?
We take a photo the first time a Guest enters one of our parks. From that photo, the software builds a Photo Template. A Photo Template is a unique set of data points based on facial features. The Photo Template created on entry will be used to validate admission and other entitlements during their current and future visits.
Are you excited to see this technology potentially returning to more frequent use? Let us know on social media!
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