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TL;DR: The NFL is rolling out facial authentication technology in its stadiums starting on August 8. The system allows fans to breeze through entry gates with a simple glance for speedy access and shorter lines. It also recognizes players and employees so that only properly credentialed individuals can access the locker rooms and the press box.
The NFL is rolling out Wicket's facial authentication technology across all 32 stadiums for the upcoming season. The system should be operational by the time preseason starts. The full installation follows a successful trial conducted at various venues last year, including Cleveland Browns Stadium.
The primary goal of the system is to facilitate access for credentialed media, officials, staff, and guests to restricted areas such as the playing field, press box, and locker rooms. By using facial recognition, the NFL also aims to prevent the fraudulent use of counterfeit physical credentials. The Wicket system employs advanced facial recognition software but is very fast and easy to use.
Customers must first link their ticketing account to their facial image using a selfie. Wicket's artificial intelligence creates a unique digital code that represents the user's facial features instead of storing the actual image.
Upon arriving at the stadium, registered users can access designated lanes equipped with camera-enabled devices, such as tablet computers. As users look into the camera, the system compares their faces to the stored digital code associated with their account. A successful match authorizes all tickets purchased by that individual.
The process takes an average of just two seconds per ticket. Wicket claims its technology can authenticate faces with 99.7% accuracy, even in low-light conditions. Additionally, the system allows friends and family members using tickets from the same account to quickly follow the primary ticket holder through the gate, enhancing the overall entry experience.
The Wicket FR system is opt-in, allowing users to choose between facial authentication and traditional entry methods. So those uninclined to hand over their biometrics need not worry.
Several teams, including the Cleveland Browns and Atlanta Falcons, have already begun using this technology for ticket holder entry. The Browns report that 35,000 fans have enrolled in the "Express Access" facial authentication program, which also verifies ages for alcohol purchases at concession stands.
However, details regarding the internal setup of the Wicket system at stadiums remain unclear. Early versions used Apple iPads for face scans, but there is potential for integration with other entry hardware.
The adoption of facial recognition technology is also gaining traction in other sports. The New York Mets have already implemented the Wicket system at Citi Field. Soccer leagues worldwide are installing similar systems, but not necessarily Wicket's. Currently, 25 of the top 100 soccer stadiums utilize facial recognition for fan surveillance, indicating a broader trend in the sports industry toward enhanced security measures.
Image credit: James Marvin Phelps