Clear, the expedited security program, is making some significant upgrades to its service. In the next iteration of Clear, Clear Plus users and verified members will be able to identify themselves using their face, eliminating the need for additional biometrics or stopping at a Clear Pod. This announcement was made by Clear CEO Caryn Seidman-Becker during an earnings call.
According to a Clear spokesperson, this upgrade, called NextGen Identity+, will provide the highest fidelity digital identity for Clear Plus Members. It will unlock both physical and digital experiences for members in the airport and beyond. Over the next year, Clear will roll out its NextGen Identity+ technology, which will enable face recognition as the primary biometric for membership identification. This means that members will no longer have to go through the current process of confirming their identity through fingerprint or iris scans at a Clear Pod before going to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) lane.
The goal of this upgrade is to provide a faster Clear experience for members. Currently, Clear automates most users’ identity verification steps in the TSA screening process. Clear members go through a separate security lane with dedicated kiosks, eliminating the need to wait in line for a TSA agent to review their license or passport.
The spokesperson from Clear stated that this upgrade will allow Clear Plus members to verify their identity using their face instead of iris or fingerprints. This will eliminate the need for members to stop at a Clear Pod and seamlessly integrate into TSA equipment for friction-free entry into physical screening. The vision is to keep members moving through the Clear Lane without having to break their stride.
To begin using this new technology, Clear will start upgrading Clear Plus members later this month. Members will receive an email prompting them to create a one-time password to verify their phone number. They will then be instructed to bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to the airport the next time they fly. Passports will allow for the quickest upgrade experience. Once an updated photo is provided, Clear members can start using the new face recognition technology when it becomes available and promoted.
As of November, Clear is available at 54 U.S. airports, as well as various stadiums and other large venues. There are nearly 19 million members nationwide. Clear Reserve, which allows travelers to book timed entry through TSA security based on flight departure time, is currently available at 20 airports across the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
The annual membership fee for Clear is $189, but some credit cards cover the cost. This makes it an attractive option for frequent travelers who value convenience and time-saving measures.
In conclusion, Clear’s upgrade to its NextGen Identity+ technology will significantly improve the user experience for Clear Plus members and verified members. By allowing face recognition as the primary biometric for membership identification, Clear aims to provide a faster and more seamless security process for its members. This upgrade aligns with Clear’s vision of keeping members moving through the Clear Lane without interruptions. With its widespread availability and growing membership base, Clear continues to establish itself as a leading expedited security program in the United States.