JR West will replace the face recognition ticket gate machines currently being tested at Osaka and Shin-Osaka stations with a new type starting March 2, 2026.
The new ticket checker is a modification of an existing IC-only machine, with two cameras installed on the top surface to improve authentication accuracy. The key point of the new machine is that it is compatible with both IC card and face recognition, although it can be introduced by modifying the existing machine.
In addition to the current Osaka Station Umekita Underground Exit and Shin-Osaka Station East Exit, the Osaka Station Liaison Bridge Exit will be newly added. One face recognition ticket gate will be installed at each ticket gate, and the face recognition ticket gate currently in use will be removed.
In particular, the Osaka Station ticket gate, which was designed as an archway with displays in various parts to emphasize staging and the experience of new technology, will not be seen any more after this replacement.
The company will continue to recruit monitors for the face recognition ticket gate. The application is open to holders of ICOCA commuter passes, including those between Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station, who register their commuter pass information and facial information on the website.
© Source travel watch