From MoneyWeek · · 2m
Revolut's facial recognition checkout is here
The UK fintech bank launches biometric payments, letting you pay with just a smile at select stores.
In brief
The UK fintech bank launches biometric payments, letting you pay with just a smile at select stores. Revolut became the first UK bank to offer facial recognition payments, requiring only a face scan at checkout with no phone or card needed. Originally reported by MoneyWeek.
Revolut launches face-pay checkouts
Revolut has become the first UK bank to roll out biometric payments, letting customers pay at stores using facial recognition only. The system, called Pay with Smile, launched this week at select retailers.
How the smile payment works
You look at a camera at the till, smile, and the payment processes in around 3 seconds. You don't need your phone, card, or wallet. The system detects real faces by requiring slight movement to prevent fraud.
Advanced enough for twins
Revolut says the facial recognition technology can distinguish between identical twins by recognizing distinctive features in movement and facial characteristics. This addresses a common concern about biometric security.
Security and data protection
Revolut says no biometric data is stored at till points and staff cannot access the information. The system uses high-level banking security similar to technology in Apple products.
Benefits for merchants and shoppers
Revolut claims merchants lose around 2,500 pounds a year in technical glitches. For customers, facial recognition offers a speedy checkout without needing a phone, card, or wallet, even when out for a run.
Who can use it and how to start
Any Revolut customer can use facial recognition payments where available. You must opt in and scan a QR code at the store on first use. There are no costs, but purchases are limited to 200 pounds and occasional PIN prompts may appear.
Rollout starts small, needs big retailers
Revolut has started rolling out the system this week but hasn't announced which retailers are adopting it. The real game changer will be when major supermarkets like Tesco or Sainsbury's adopt the technology.
Revolut's ambition to compete with banks
CEO Nik Storonsky has long planned to transform Revolut from a tech startup into a banking giant with technology competitors cannot match. Just over a year after getting its full banking license, Revolut is delivering on that vision.
The bottom line
Revolut became the first UK bank to offer facial recognition payments, requiring only a face scan at checkout with no phone or card needed.
