China is a global leader in cashless payments, and biometric payment methods like fingerprint scanning and facial recognition are widely used. Major Chinese payment platforms, such as Alipay (by Alibaba) and WeChat Pay (by Tencent), have integrated face recognition payment systems in stores, shopping malls, and even public transportation.

How It Works:

1. Facial Recognition: Customers scan their face at a payment terminal (e.g., Alipay’s “Smile to Pay” system).


2. Fingerprint Payments: Some smartphones and payment terminals allow transactions via fingerprint authentication.


3. QR Code + Biometrics: Users link their biometric data to their mobile wallet, and payments happen instantly.



Where It’s Used:

Retail stores, supermarkets, and restaurants (e.g., KFC, Starbucks in China).

Metro stations and public transport.

Hospitals and government services.

Vending machines and self-checkout counters.


Security & Privacy Concerns:

While convenient, facial recognition payments raise privacy issues. The Chinese government regulates the use of such technology, but it also uses similar systems for surveillance.