What began as a technology trial is now a full-blown success, as the Cleveland Browns are reporting big gains in space and cost savings by moving more of their stadium entry gates to a facial-authentication system powered by software from Wicket.
In a press release with statistics from the full 2022 NFL season at Cleveland Browns Stadium, the team said its expanded use of the Wicket system — where fans enroll in a program to enable them to use their face as a ticketing confirmation device — has allowed them to significantly reduce the number of entry gates needed, with one Wicket system able to replace four traditional lines.
First started as a small trial, the Browns now have 20 gates that use what it calls its Express Access system, and have signed up more than 50 percent of the team’s season-ticket holders into the facial-authentication program. Last year the team also used the Wicket systems to power a mobile concession beer-stand experiment that used a fan’s face for payment and age verification, and also use Wicket for internal security in the Browns team facilities.
