Restaurant lets customers pay using their face

A new restaurant concept gives customers an easy — and high-tech way — to pay for their meal without having to take out their wallet or even their smartphone.



KPRO, by KFC (from Yum China Holdings), in Hangzhou, China, was developed for young, tech-savvy consumers who are open to new tastes as well as digital innovations. The health-focused restaurant features the first commercial application of Alipay's new "Smile to Pay" facial recognition payment technology globally. (Alipay is the mobile and online payment platform created by Alibaba.)



The technology utilizes a multi-step verification process that only takes about two seconds. It includes a facial scan using a 3D camera. Customers who opt for the facial payment must also enter their mobile phone number to facilitate payment.



In addition to facial recognition payment, KPRO incorporates other cutting-edge technology to provide customers with a convenient and connected dining experience. It has no traditional ordering counter. Instead, customers are able to order at digital kiosks. They can also use their mobile phones to scan QR codes and order at their tables.