HIGASHI-OSAKA, Osaka -- Kindai University and manufacturer Glory Ltd. are testing a payment service using a facial recognition system that can identify people wearing masks.
In anticipation of more students coming to campuses as COVID-19 vaccinations progress, the university plans to officially introduce this service from October or later, after verifying test results.
Tests are underway at four cafeterias and cafes on the university's Higashi-Osaka campus in Osaka Prefecture.
The system was developed by the Hyogo Prefecture-based Glory and uses artificial intelligence to analyze facial characteristics, such as those around the eyes. Customers can make payments simply by facing a tablet if they have registered in advance their facial images, credit card information and security codes.
"It's convenient because I can pay without taking out my wallet or smartphone," said Ryoya Kikuchi, a senior studying at the Faculty of Applied Sociology, after buying a cup of coffee.
Kindai University and Glory began testing a facial recognition payment service in April. The service initially required users to remove their masks, but functionality was enhanced in June to recognize people wearing masks.
Glory plans to improve the system based on the test results and put it into practical use by the end of March next year. It aims to sell it to retailers and restaurants.
Panasonic Corp. and NEC Corp. are also developing facial recognition systems that can identify people wearing masks, as the face-coverings are ubiquitous during the coronavirus pandemic.
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