We know that Disney World keeps track of you while you’re at the resort, but just how intense are the methods they use?
Disney World tested the technology in 2021
In the age of technology, Disney World has used plenty of tools to get into the data collection game. From apps to video surveillance, there’s no question that Disney is tracking you when you’re at the resort — but how deep does the rabbit hole go? Does Disney use facial recognition tools in its effort to keep tabs on you? We have the answer!
It’s no secret that Disney collects data on your interests, activity, and whereabouts via technology like the My Disney Experience app and MagicBands. In fact, it doesn’t hide this fact, as the company claims it uses the data to improve the guest experience. However, regardless of how you feel about this data collection, you may not have to worry about facial recognition technology…at least not yet.
©Guide2WDW
Currently, the company uses the technology listed above, as well as other devices like finger scanners, as its primary source of biometrics. Right now, Disney World does not use face scanners.
Finger Scanning
With that said, things could easily change. Disney World has explored facial recognition efforts in the past.
In fact, Magic Kingdom tested facial recognition from March 2021 to May 2021. Trying to go for a more touchless experience coming off 2020 and the pandemic, Disney said, “The technology we’re testing captures an image of a Guest’s face and converts it into a unique number, which is then associated with the form of admission being used for park entry.”
Facial Recognition
Disney’s tech centered around facial feature measurements and interestingly worked with face masks. It created a depth map of the face and was destined to become a permanent resort feature — but that never really materialized. When Disney was testing this, the flaws must’ve outweighed the known benefits, and more tinkering was required.
Say Cheese!
That doesn’t mean that Disney won’t have a picture of your face on file. PhotoPass pictures taken on and off attractions are linked to your account and MagicBand — albeit they get deleted after some time.
Facial Recognition Test Sign
Over at Disneyland, the California theme park resort DOES take your picture and links it to your ticket. It then also scans your face each time you enter the gate to a theme park.
Disneyland entrance scanners
Additionally, Universal Orlando — and including the new Epic Universe theme park — uses facial scanning technology. It’s simply become a popular trend among the big theme park giants.
Here we go!
With all that in mind, it’s safe to say there’s at least a 50/50 shot that facial recognition comes over to Disney World at some point. Despite privacy concerns and a history of controversy surrounding data collection, the system is in full swing over in Anaheim. If the technology works, there is no reason for Disney to withhold bringing it over to Florida. Regardless of how you feel about these measures, Disney is likely to continue modifying the way it monitors and reacts to its guests.
Here’s what YOU said back in 2021!
We’re at the parks literally every day and, through research and our own experiences, we’ve learned how Disney is keeping track of us. We’ve also had plenty of experience now on the West Coast with Disney’s new facial recognition tech, so if it ever comes over to Florida, we’ll let you know what you should expect.
How do you feel about the prospect of facial recognition technology coming to Disney World? Let us know and continue to follow us here at DFB for all the latest Disney World coverage!
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I WISH Disney World would get SOMETHING to replace the finger biometrics. I am a season pass holder and I am one of. those people that don’t have discernible fingerprints. I can NEVER get in the parks without having to be embarrassed by having the CM raise their hand so a supervisor can come over and take my picture. It never fails and it’s long past time that Disney updates their system.
I was there in 2021 when Disney World was giving you the option of facial recognition. I thought it was cool so we went ahead and did it. We live in SoCal and are Disneyland pass holders. I love that they have implemented it here. It makes the lines go so much faster and smoother. Hopefully they will put it in place at Disney World before our December trip. It really does make it easier. I’ve had a few times of my finger not registering.