Epic Universe has delivered a next-level theme park experience, loaded with jaw-dropping attractions and the kind of technology that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into tomorrow. But one new feature that’s meant to make your day smoother could actually do the opposite if you’re not careful: the facial recognition lockers.
On paper, this new system sounds like a dream—no keys, no codes, no fumbling with your park ticket. Just walk up, smile for the camera, and let your face do all the work. But theme park regulars and tech-savvy guests alike are learning that while this innovation is sleek, it comes with some serious risks.
The Setup: How It’s Supposed to Work
When you approach the ride entrance, you’ll find locker bays that use facial recognition. You step up to a kiosk, get your face scanned, and the system opens a locker just for you. You toss in your belongings and head to the ride.
Once you exit, you head to the other side of the locker system and scan your face again to retrieve your stuff. Simple… until the tech glitches.
The Problem? You’re Likely to Forget the Basics
Because this system is designed to make you forget locker numbers and key tracking, that’s exactly what most guests do. They rely entirely on their face being the golden ticket. But if the scanner can’t recognize you—maybe because you took off your hat, got sweaty, or put on sunglasses—you’re in trouble.
And here’s the kicker: the only way a Team Member can help you access your locker is if you know your locker number. So now you’re standing in front of dozens—maybe hundreds—of identical lockers, with no idea which one is yours.
What You Should Do Instead
You don’t have to ditch the system altogether, but a little backup plan goes a long way:
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Snap a photo of your locker number or surrounding area.
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Make a mental note of which locker bay you used.
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Skip facial recognition and use your park ticket if you’re unsure about the tech.
Universal’s goal with this new system is to eliminate the frustration of losing keys or waiting in long lines for lockers. But when it backfires, it can seriously disrupt your day—especially during peak park hours.
It’s a Tech Upgrade That Still Needs a Human Touch
Epic Universe is leaning hard into its high-tech theme, and the locker system is just one piece of that. But even in a futuristic park, old-school common sense still has its place.
So before you rush off to your next ride, take five seconds to double-check your locker location. That simple act could save you a major headache later on.
