New | Uber introduces face recognition technology in China operations

Uber has introduced facial recognition technology to its operations in mainland China, which the US company claims as a first for the global ride-hailing industry.

In a statement released on Thursday, San Francisco-based Uber said that facial recognition system forms part of its verification process for drivers in the world’s second-largest economy.

“For each and every one of the millions of rides we facilitate everyday in China, we are committed to providing both riders and drivers with the most convenient and secure experience,” said Uber China head of strategy Zhen Liu.

“This new facial recognition feature enhances our already stringent control systems and provides an additional safeguard for drivers and riders.”

This initiative by Uber has come weeks after authorities in Shenzhen announced they found thousands of drivers working for various operators of ride-hailing apps in the city had criminal records, which sparked public concern about the safety provided by these transport services.

Shenzhen’s municipal transport committee summoned executives from Uber, Didi Chuxing, Yidao Yongche, Zuche and ihavecar.com -- the mainland’s five top ride-hailing apps operators -- to address the issue.