Ticketmaster does not currently use Face ID as a method of authentication or identification in its mobile app. The Ticketmaster app relies mainly on barcode scanning technology to validate tickets rather than biometric identification methods like Face ID.
How Ticketmaster App Validates Tickets
When you purchase tickets through Ticketmaster online or through its mobile app, the tickets are generated with a unique barcode. When you arrive at the event venue, you open your Ticketmaster app and access your ticket barcode. A staff member at the venue will scan this barcode to validate and record that your ticket has been used for entry.
Some key points about Ticketmaster’s ticket barcode system:
- The barcode contains encrypted information that identifies the specific ticket details like event, section, row, seat etc.
- The barcode can only be scanned once – after the first scan, it will show as invalid for future scans.
- The barcode is unique to each ticket purchased.
- Venue staff use specialized scanner devices to scan the barcode and decrypt the ticket information.
This barcode system does not rely on any identifying information or images from the ticket holder. As long as you can display the valid barcode on your phone screen, you can gain entry.
Why Ticketmaster Doesn’t Need Face ID
There are a few key reasons why Ticketmaster does not require advanced biometric identification like Face ID for its mobile ticket system:
- Barcode system is reliable and secure – The encrypted barcode system makes it very difficult for tickets to be counterfeited or used multiple times.
- Avoid exclusion – Face ID would exclude users who do not have compatible iPhone models from using mobile tickets.
- Slows down entry – Requiring each attendee to be individually verified through Face ID would significantly slow down the event entry process.
- Privacy concerns – Some customers may not feel comfortable having their biometric facial data collected and stored.
The barcode scanning method allows efficient and accurate verification while avoiding some of the downsides of using facial recognition technology. It also allows use across all smartphone models, rather than just iPhones equipped with Face ID.
How Face ID Works on iPhone
Even though Ticketmaster does not currently utilize Face ID, it is a technology available on newer iPhone models that is used for various authentication purposes. Here is a quick overview of how Face ID works:
- Face ID uses an infrared camera to create a 3D map of a user’s face.
- The facial map data is encrypted and stored locally on the device – it is not shared externally.
- Neural networks analyze thousands of points on the facial map to verify the user’s identity.
- Face ID works even in low light and when wearing sunglasses or hats.
- Only one face can be enrolled per device. Alternate appearances can be added.
- The average user’s probability of a false match is around 1 in 1,000,000.
On supported iPhones, Face ID is used to unlock the device, authorize payments through Apple Pay, gain access to third party apps, and enable other authentication functions.
Could Ticketmaster Adopt Face ID in the Future?
While Ticketmaster currently relies on barcode technology, it is possible that they could incorporate Face ID functionality in the future. Here are some potential benefits if Ticketmaster were to adopt Face ID:
- Enhanced security – Face ID has a very low probability of false match, making it more secure than a paper ticket or barcode.
- Convenience – Users wouldn’t need to fumble with their phone to open the app and display the barcode.
- Entry speed – Integrated properly, Face ID could allow for faster gate entry as each user is instantly verified.
- Reduced staffing – Less staff might be required at event entrances to manually scan each ticket.
- Analytics – Ticketmaster could potentially track exact user attendance rather than just ticket scans.
However, there are also downsides that may prevent Ticketmaster from adopting Face ID:
- iPhone exclusivity – Face ID is only available on newer iPhone models, locking out Android users.
- Slow entry – iPhones would need to be woken and brought near staff devices, which may slow entry.
- Costs – Ticketmaster would need to purchase and distribute Face ID scanning hardware to venues.
- User reluctance – Some users may not feel comfortable using Face ID due to privacy concerns.
While the benefits are clear in terms of security and convenience, the costs and exclusivity issues may outweigh these advantages for now. But there is a chance that Ticketmaster could shift toward biometric identification like Face ID in the future as the technology becomes more widespread, affordable and accepted.
Conclusion
Ticketmaster currently relies on barcode technology rather than Face ID or other biometric identification for its mobile ticketing app. The encrypted barcode system provides reliable ticket verification without the need for facial recognition. Face ID could provide enhanced security and convenience for users in the future. However, issues around costs, entry speeds, iPhone exclusivity, and privacy concerns may prevent Ticketmaster from adopting Face ID anytime soon. The barcode method works well for now, but Face ID could emerge as an option down the road as the technology evolves.