First implemented in October 2023, the facial recognition scanners haven’t been a main point of entry for Universal Islands of Adventure recently. But we noticed that they have returned. Facial Recognition For Entry During a visit on April 5, we noticed the facial recognition devices were available again at Universal Islands of Adventure. The machines are still often used for the passholder line, but haven’t been available for non-passholder ticket entry for some time—potentially even since 2025. Photo recognition entry is not required, and guests may opt out of it. The facial recognition machines for the non-passholder ticket entry were not in use this past weekend either. This technology is not currently in use at Universal Studios Florida, which implemented it about a month after Universal Islands of Adventure in November 2023. Facial recognition cameras were later installed in 2024 at express lanes throughout Universal Studios Florida. Here is the updated information about photo validation/facial scanning from Universal Orlando’s Privacy Info Center. As a note, although this webpage appears to be current and on the site, it still refers to the photo recognition “technical rehearsal period” which took place a few years ago. What is Photo Validation? Photo Validation is a faster and more seamless way for our Guests to access select experiences throughout Universal Orlando Resort during their visit. How is Photo Validation being used at Universal Orlando? We use Photo Validation to verify tickets and ticket holders – making it a faster and more seamless way for our guests to access select experiences during their visit. Photo Validation is currently used at the park entrances of Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, and Universal Volcano Bay. Now, Guests may also use Photo Validation to verify and use their Universal Express Pass at select attractions throughout Universal Islands