Amazon aiming to expand palm recognition tech to stadiums and offices
29 September 2020, 13:54
Customers at the stores near Amazon’s campus in Washington state can already flash a palm for entry and to buy goods.
Amazon has introduced new palm recognition technology in two Seattle stores and aims for broader use in places like stadiums and offices.
Customers at the stores near Amazon’s campus in Washington state can flash a palm for entry and to buy goods.
Dilip Kumar, vice president of Physical Retail & Technology, said the company chose palm recognition because it is more private than other biometric technology, and a user is required to purposefully flash a palm at the Amazon One device to engage.
“And it’s contactless, which we think customers will appreciate, especially in current times,” Mr Kumar wrote in a blog post.
The company expects to roll out Amazon One as an option in other Amazon stores in the coming months, which could mean Whole Foods Market grocery shops.
Amazon believes the technology is applicable elsewhere.
“In most retail environments, Amazon One could become an alternate payment or loyalty card option with a device at the checkout counter next to a traditional point of sale system,” Mr Kumar wrote.
“Or, for entering a location like a stadium or badging into work, Amazon One could be part of an existing entry point to make accessing the location quicker and easier.”
People can sign up for an Amazon One account with a mobile phone number and credit card. An Amazon account is not necessary.
