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Revolut is piloting facial recognition at store checkouts in the UK

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Revolut is trialing a new facial recognition system in the UK that could be convenient but controversial.

The one-panel cartoon

Just when you thought remembering your password was annoying.
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A customer standing in front of a checkout counter in a UK supermarket, where a large screen prompts them to look at the camera for facial recognition payment with Revolut.

Caption: Just when you thought remembering your password was annoying.

Read the full 3-panel strip Revolut is piloting facial recognition at store checkouts in the UK — comic strip
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Based on the original story on engadget.com.

Editor's note

While the use of facial recognition technology at checkout points might streamline the retail experience, it also raises significant privacy concerns, making it crucial for Revolut to address these implications transparently and ethically.

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Read the script

Panel 1

Alex and Sam are standing in line at a grocery store checkout. Alex is looking excitedly at the new checkout kiosk that has a large camera above it.

Alex: Isn’t this amazing, Sam? Facial recognition at checkout! No more fumbling with cards or cash!

Panel 2

Sam looks unimpressed and slightly skeptical, but Alex is still enthusiastic. A display next to the kiosk shows a cartoon of a happy person smiling and waving at the camera.

Sam: Great. So now I just smile and wave to pay for my groceries?

Alex: Exactly! It’s like magic! You just look at the camera, it recognizes you, and your payment is done!

Panel 3

Robin enters the frame, carrying a large, awkwardly shaped object. The cashier looks bewildered, and Alex and Sam turn to watch.

Robin: Hey, guys! I brought my new invention to test out!

Alex: Oh boy, what’s that?

Robin: It’s a hat that looks like a face and covers your entire head, so the camera doesn’t recognize you!

Sam: That’s... something. Let’s see how this trial goes without it.