Facial Recognition Technology Coming into Wider Use in Japan

In Japan, facial recognition technology is becoming increasingly prevalent, enabling touchless or ticketless entry through train station gates and payments at shops without the need for physical wallets or credit cards. As artificial intelligence continues to advance, the accuracy of these systems is expected to improve, thereby reducing instances of fraud. However, privacy concerns remain an issue, highlighting the importance of robust user information management practices.

One company, Trial Holdings Inc., has integrated facial recognition technology from NEC Corp. into their payment system at 15 stores in Tokyo and Fukuoka Prefecture. Customers can now shop by simply scanning items at self-checkout counters, eliminating the need for cash or smartphone payment services. Attendees of professional baseball games at Tokyo Dome can enter the stadium via a Panasonic Connect Co. facial recognition system, after providing an ID, and pay for purchases without the use of cash or credit cards.

Furthermore, Hitachi Ltd. and Tobu Railway Co. have implemented facial recognition train ticket gates at Ikebukuro Station on the Tojo Line and other stations. Looking ahead, it is anticipated that facial recognition technology will extend to payments at commercial facilities, including nearby convenience stores.