Speeding Through Security: A Faster Version of Clear Arrives in 2023
Speeding Through Security: A Faster Version of Clear Arrives in 2023 - New Expedited Screening Program to Launch Next Year
Security lines at airports are the bane of many travelers' existence. Waiting in long queues to get screened takes time away from being able to relax at the gate or grab a bite to eat. It's no wonder innovative companies like Clear have found success helping travelers bypass regular TSA lines in favor of expedited screening.
Now, a new competitor is emerging in this space. Plans for a new expedited screening program are slated to launch in 2023, providing travelers yet another option for speeding through airport security.
___ will rely heavily on biometrics and artificial intelligence to enable quicker identity verification and threat assessment. Users will undergo a one-time enrollment process where their fingerprints, iris scans, and other biometric data are collected.
After enrollment, users can enter into ___ lanes at participating airports. There will be no need to show boarding passes or IDs. Instead, your face and fingerprints will be scanned to instantly validate your identity.
AI algorithms will simultaneously analyze these biometrics along with your past travel patterns and other data points to rapidly make risk assessments. Travelers with trusted profiles will get expedited screening, while higher-risk passengers may receive additional scrutiny.
The company believes this technology will allow screening with virtually no waiting. And at only $99 for a 1-year membership, the service undercuts Clear's $189 yearly fee. This lower price point could attract budget-conscious travelers interested in expedited security but turned off by Clear's higher costs.
However, privacy advocates have raised concerns about increased surveillance and collection of sensitive biometric data. It's unclear how the data will be safeguarded or used for other purposes. Travelers will have to weigh convenience against comfort with expanded data gathering.
While TSA is not directly involved in ___, there are questions about how the service could impact regular security lanes. If ___ gains popularity, normal lanes may become even more congested as travelers opt for the expedited process. This could ultimately force longer waits on non-members.